General Mills hires Fallon executive to enhance brand strategy

General Mills Inc. on Thursday named Fallon executive Michael Fanuele as its first chief creative officer.

Fanuele, Fallon's chief strategy officer, will report to Chief Marketing Officer Mark Addicks as part of a strategy to centralize brand management at the Golden Valley-based food giant.

In his new role, Fanuele will oversee brand strategy, strategic planning and creative development for the General Mills family of brands.

"Michael brings a wealth of experience in leading teams to do great work that delivers market growth," Addicks said. "A great creative idea strategically communicated to the right audience at the right time and place is critical to success in today's dynamic, multichanneled world."

At Fallon, Fanuele worked on accounts ranging from H&R Block to Arby's and Cadillac.

"I am excited to see just how great these brands can be when turbocharged with purpose and creativity," Fanuele said.

Before Fallon, Fanuele was with the agencies Mad Dogs & Englishmen, J. Walter Thompson and Euro RSCG in New York and London.

"Michael's a very talented guy who brings high energy, enthusiasm and intellect to everything he does," said Fallon CEO Mike Buchner.

David Phelps