UK-based Italian dining chain Prezzo has appointed Mark McCulloch as its new chief marketing officer (CMO).  

McCulloch, with more than two decades of industry experience, is set to work part-time, dedicating three days a week to spearhead the next phase of Prezzo's customer experience strategy. 

McCulloch's role will involve collaboration with James Brown, the recently appointed chief executive, aiming to strengthen Prezzo's position in the UK's foodservice sector.  

His extensive background includes significant roles such as former marketing director at Pret A Manger and YO! Sushi. 

McCulloch said: “I’m thrilled to be joining Prezzo at such an exciting time. I’ve always admired the brand’s rich heritage, serving Italian favourites up and down the UK for the past 25 years. 

“The opportunity to work with James Brown and the Prezzo team to help grow the well-loved brand is a challenge I can’t wait to get my teeth into. With my experience working with the best brands in the hospitality sector across the globe, I’m confident we can create something incredible that the team will be proud of and that will excite our guests, current and new.” 

The industry veteran is also recognised for initiating Hospitality Rising, a prominent advertising campaign launched in 2022.  

This initiative sought to attract people aged 18 to 30 to consider careers within the hospitality realm through engaging slogans, social media drives and an accessible online job portal. 

Despite its success in generating 300,000 job applications, Hospitality Rising had to halt in 2024 due to funding constraints.  

Prezzo CEO James Brown said: “Mark’s reputation in the industry speaks volumes. His work with brands like Pret A Manger, YO! Sushi, Dishoom and Rosa’s Thai has demonstrated his ability to innovate, adapt and lead in competitive markets, making brands both busier and more famous. We’re thrilled to have him on board and look forward to working together as we refresh and evolve Prezzo and take it as a team to the next level.”