Craveable Brands has officially confirmed Ben Simmons as the new Head of Marketing for Oporto Australia.

Simmons, a seasoned professional with two decades of experience in the marketing and fast food industry, stepped into the role in October with a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record. His previous roles include General Manager of Marketing & Operations for Taco Bell at Restaurant Brands Australia and Senior Marketing Manager at KFC, while his portfolio also includes successful stints with renowned brands such as Kit Kat, Uncle Toby’s, and Diet Coke in Australia and the UK.

CEO at Oporto Franchising, Samantha Bragg, was thrilled to welcome Simmons to the Oporto familia.

"Ben brings a strong strategic capability and an unwavering customer and growth mindset to the team," she said. "Oporto is in a period of rapid growth as we expand our market presence through an accelerated new store opening strategy while continuing to transform our CX and broaden our market appeal to deliver continued same store growth.

“It is an exciting time for Oporto and I look forward to working alongside Ben as we continue to make this iconic brand that started in Bondi accessible and loved by more Australians."

Simmons himself is equally enthusiastic about his new role. "As one of Australia’s most iconic home-grown restaurant brands with a devoted Australian fan base, I’m excited to join Oporto and really looking forward to leading its next wave of growth with the team," he said.

Oporto was founded in 1986 in North Bondi by Antonio Cerqueira, has been serving flame-grilled chicken and Portuguese-inspired flavours across Australia ever since. The brand opened 11 new stores since July in locations including regional Queensland towns of Bundaberg, Rockhampton, and Townsville. It also has ambitious plans to open over 25 new stores by the end of the financial year.

Simmons' appointment comes at a pivotal time for Oporto as it seeks to capitalise on its growth momentum and expand its market presence.