As Hawaiian Bros expands into new regions and scales its franchising program, the pineapple-topped, Kansas City-built brand is adding a scoop of marketing expertise to its executive leadership menu.
Shannon Scott, Hawaiian Bros
Shannon Scott, who spent more than a decade as a marketing executive at Applebee’s before helping to lead the American Academy of Family Physicians, has been appointed chief marketing officer for the Hawaiian-inspired restaurant concept.
She previously joined Hawaiian Bros in a fractional capacity for about a year before being named to the C-suite role. Scott is now expected to lead the brand strategy that shapes first impressions, unifies storytelling, and delivers a marketing system designed to scale with consistency and strength across both company and franchise development.
“Shannon is the kind of leader who elevates the entire organization, bringing strategic discipline, creativity, and an instinct for how to build brands people care about,” said Scott Ford, president and CEO of Hawaiian Bros, which launched in 2018 in Belton, Missouri, and has now grown to more than 70 restaurants in 12 states and growing.
Click here to find Hawaiian Bros nearby, including 15 locations in the Kansas City region.
A Honolulu Chicken platter from Hawaiian Bros; courtesy photo
Scott Ford, Hawaiian Bros
“She has led at the highest levels, and understands how to align vision, message, and execution,” he continued. “As we continue to open new markets and support a growing network of franchise partners, her leadership will strengthen our brand everywhere guests encounter us.”
One of the fastest-growing restaurant brands in the U.S., Ford said, Hawaiian Bros is executing a disciplined development roadmap that is now welcoming experienced multi-unit franchise operators — a challenge that requires Scott’s expertise in strategic market entry.
“I’m excited to ‘officially’ join Hawaiian Bros at a moment filled with immense opportunity,” said Scott. “This brand has a powerful story, an unmistakable energy, and a culture rooted in genuine hospitality. My focus will be strengthening the emotional connection guests feel for Hawaiian Bros, building a marketing platform that supports franchisees in every market, and ensuring we introduce the brand with impact as we expand across the country.”
