LOUISVILLE, KY. — Keith Siegner has been named vice-president of investor relations and corporate strategy of Yum! Brands, Inc., the Louisville-based parent company of Pizza Hut, KFC and Taco Bell. Previously a restaurant analyst on Wall Street, Mr. Siegner will assume responsibility for Yum! Brands’ relationships with analysts and investors. He will report to president and chief financial officer David Gibbs. Mr. Siegner also will help to shape long-term growth strategies as Yum! works toward the separation of its China business.
“Keith is an excellent addition to Yum! Brands,” Mr. Gibbs said. “He brings to this important position nearly 20 years of financial expertise and a deep understanding of the restaurant industry and our company. Keith’s insight into franchisee economics and benchmarking to uncover areas for improvement, coupled with his knowledge of Wall Street, will enable him to make a meaningful impact on our business and our interactions with the investment community.
“This is an exciting time at Yum! as we separate into two powerful, independent companies — Yum! Brands and Yum! China — with unique investment profiles, capital structures, and compelling growth potential. We are thrilled to have someone with Keith’s experience and knowledge join our company.”
Mr. Siegner has bachelor’s and master’s degrees in accounting from Wake Forest University and worked in the international tax consulting services practice of Arthur Anderson L.L.P. early in his career. His experience also includes covering the environmental and specialty chemicals sectors for Credit Suisse Securities USA, L.L.C. and service as executive director in securities research, analysis and the publishing of investment advice for restaurant companies with a combined market capitalization of $300 billion, including Yum!, for UBS Securities L.L.C.
“I am thrilled to be joining the world-class Yum! team as the company moves toward its next chapter,” Mr. Siegner said. “Greg Creed, David Gibbs and the team have a clear vision to transform Yum! for the future by capitalizing on the extraordinary strength and growth potential of the KFC, Pizza Hut and Taco Bell brands. After many years following Yum!, I cannot wait to play a role in driving its long-term growth and success.”
