Dwanith kotian PepsiCo has appointed Mark Kirkham as the new chief marketing officer (CMO) for PepsiCo Beverages North America, stepping into the role as the company doubles down on its push for healthier products and a reimagined brand portfolio. Kirkham succeeds Greg Lyons, who departs after nearly eight years in the position to pursue an external opportunity.
Kirkham, a seasoned 15-year veteran at PepsiCo, brings a wealth of experience in brand building, innovation, and global marketing. Before assuming this new role, he served as senior vice president of marketing for sparkling brands, following leadership roles in PepsiCo’s international operations. He has been instrumental in driving the company’s zero-sugar offerings, including the Pepsi Zero Sugar Challenge, which aimed to convert regular soda drinkers to healthier alternatives.
At a time when PepsiCo is intensifying efforts to cater to health-conscious consumers, Kirkham’s appointment comes as the company looks to modernize its portfolio. His leadership has seen major campaigns such as Pepsi’s global rebrand, Gatorade’s “Fuel Tomorrow,” and Mountain Dew’s recent re-launch. These efforts align with PepsiCo’s goal of appealing to younger generations and adapting to shifting consumer preferences.
As rival Coca-Cola also capitalizes on the zero-sugar trend, with revamped formulas and new campaigns targeting Gen Z, PepsiCo’s strategy under Kirkham will likely continue to focus on innovation and bold brand reinvention. The beverage giant’s recent acquisition of Poppi, a prebiotic soda brand, further underscores its commitment to exploring new product categories in the evolving landscape of healthier beverages.
