A significant leadership change has taken place at PepsiCo Beverages US, with Mark Kirkham stepping into the role of chief marketing officer. Replacing Greg Lyons, Kirkham brings extensive international experience and a proven track record in expanding PepsiCo’s global zero-sugar product lines. As CMO, he will oversee marketing strategies for some of America's most iconic beverage brands, including Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Starbucks, and Lipton. This move aligns with PepsiCo’s recent acquisition of Poppi, a probiotic soda brand, signaling a broader shift toward healthier drink options.

Mark Kirkham's journey within PepsiCo spans over a decade, during which he has demonstrated remarkable expertise in both marketing and innovation. Most recently, he served as Senior Vice President of Marketing for sparkling brands, returning to the United States after holding several high-profile positions overseas, such as Chief Marketing Officer of PepsiCo International Beverages. His contributions have been pivotal in advancing PepsiCo's global zero-sugar initiatives, ensuring they meet evolving consumer demands.

In his new capacity, Kirkham assumes responsibility for shaping the strategic direction of PepsiCo's household brands in the U.S. market. Under his leadership, these brands aim to continue their growth trajectory while adapting to changing preferences among American consumers. CEO Ram Krishnan expressed confidence in Kirkham's abilities, praising him as an imaginative problem solver with deep knowledge of the beverage industry. According to Krishnan, Kirkham’s creative approach makes him uniquely suited to drive innovation and foster further expansion within the company.

Kirkham himself acknowledged this milestone moment in a LinkedIn post celebrating his appointment. He reflected on his 15-year tenure at PepsiCo, expressing gratitude for having worked alongside talented colleagues across diverse brand portfolios. In particular, he thanked Greg Lyons, his predecessor, for being not only a mentor but also a cherished colleague whose legacy will endure within the organization.

The timing of Kirkham’s promotion coincides with PepsiCo’s strategic push into healthier beverage alternatives, highlighted by its acquisition of Poppi, a popular probiotic soda brand. This acquisition underscores PepsiCo's commitment to diversifying its offerings and addressing shifting trends in consumer health consciousness. With Kirkham at the helm, PepsiCo Beverages US is poised to embark on a new era of creativity and expansion, driven by innovative marketing strategies tailored to modern tastes.