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Article: Does Klein's temporary leave herald the end for the King? BK insists all is well with ad efforts, but franchisees are hungry for change.(NEWS)(Russ Klein)
- Article from:
- Advertising Age
- Article date:
- September 21, 2009
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 2009 Crain Communications, Inc. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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Byline: EMILY BRYSON YORK and RUPAL PAREKH
An unusual Burger King memo stating that chief marketing officer Russ Klein is taking a leave of absence sent tremors through the organization last week and prompted speculation from franchisees about the future of the company's advertising.
The memo from Chief Executive John Chidsey, the contents of which were shared with Ad Age, said little to explain the leave, but wished Mr. Klein a "speedy return. The company confirmed Mr. Klein was on leave, and has since insisted that this is not some sort of euphemisticor
even deceitfulway of announcing Mr. Klein's departure. "Let me reiterate, spokeswoman ...