New Braunfels, Texas – July 18, 2024 – Molak Corporation, the renowned Texas-based hospitality group behind celebrated establishments such as Gruene Hall and Gristmill, proudly announces the appointment of Anna Tauzin as the company’s first-ever Chief Marketing Officer (CMO).
With a career spanning multiple leadership roles, most recently as head of marketing for Big Chicken, Shaquille O’Neal’s fast-casual chicken concept, Tauzin brings a fresh perspective and vast experience in restaurant innovation, marketing strategies, and technology. Her extensive background also includes key positions at ChowNow, the Texas Restaurant Association, and the National Restaurant Association. In 2024, Tauzin was named one of Lunchbox’s Top 30 Women in Food and listed among the restaurant industry’s most influential marketers by Nation’s Restaurant News. In addition to serving on the board of Marqii, a restaurant technology company, she is the current president of Les Dames d’Escoffier Austin Chapter, sits on the advisory board for SXSW, and is a regular host on the podcast Restaurant Masterminds.
Founded in 1975 by Pat Molak, Molak Corporation has grown into a cornerstone of the New Braunfels and San Antonio communities. Molak’s dedication to preserving Texas hospitality created a legacy that continues to thrive under the stewardship of his family. The company remains committed to community support and philanthropy, playing a vital role in local events and charitable initiatives.
“I am thrilled to join Molak Corporation and lead the marketing efforts for such an iconic group of brands,” said Tauzin. “I look forward to leveraging my background in innovation and technology to enhance our guest experience, build a seamless marketing tech stack, and introduce new attractions that cater to families, pet owners, and Gen Z. Our immediate focus will be on content, advertising, and creating memorable experiences for both locals and tourists.”
“Anna brings a wealth of experience and innovation to our brands,” said Ryan Weinbrandt, CEO of Molak Corporation. “Her appointment marks a pivotal moment for our company. With her expertise and forward-thinking vision, we are ready to accelerate our growth, enhance our guest experiences, and drive more guests to our restaurants. We are confident that Anna will play a crucial role in our continued success and expansion.”
Originally from Wimberley, Texas, a small town that relies heavily on tourism, Tauzin has a deep passion for independent restaurants. Some of her notable career achievements include launching Startup Alley at the National Restaurant Show, leading the partnership between Blue Origin and Big Chicken, and working on significant regulations related to third-party delivery, dogs on restaurant patios, Texas oyster aquaculture, and alcohol to-go. She has been a keynote speaker and panelist for more than a decade and looks forward to continuing to engage with the industry through speaking opportunities related to high-volume independent restaurants.
In her new role, Tauzin will oversee all marketing and advertising initiatives, public relations, events, and social media, with a strong emphasis on enhancing guest experience and feedback. She aims to focus on personalization, seamless high-tech guest experiences, online ordering, leveraging customer data for menu decisions, exploring new revenue streams, and omnichannel marketing.
For more information, please contact Crystal Kinman at [email protected].
About Molak Corporation
Molak Corporation owns and operates a diverse portfolio of restaurants, retail, entertainment venues, and real estate in Texas, including Gruene Hall, Gristmill River Restaurant, Cantina del Rio, Mozie’s, The Grapevine, Down on Grayson, Josephine Street, Cotton Eyed Joe’s, and Company Store, Established in 1975 by Pat Molak, the company is dedicated to providing exceptional guest experiences and supporting the local community through various philanthropic efforts.
