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Subway Appoints Greg Lyons as Global CMO to Oversee Marketing Transformation

Digital Marketing

Business Honor
14 April, 2025

Former PepsiCo marketer Greg Lyons takes the helm of Subway’s global marketing strategy.

Subway has announced the appointment of Greg Lyons as its new Global Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), effective May 19, 2025. Lyons, who recently left PepsiCo after a successful tenure overseeing the company’s U.S. beverage division, will report directly to Subway's interim CEO Carrie Walsh. His new role will focus on reshaping Subway’s marketing approach as part of a broader company transformation.

Lyons brings with him extensive experience in global marketing and brand leadership, having spearheaded campaigns for household brands like Mountain Dew, Gatorade, and Starry during his time at PepsiCo. His appointment signals Subway's intent to revitalize its marketing efforts and accelerate growth in a competitive landscape.

As part of his new role, Lyons will oversee Subway's global marketing initiatives, including data and insights, digital platforms, culinary innovations, and more. He will also collaborate closely with Leo New York, the newly appointed creative agency under Publicis Groupe, which won Subway’s creative account after a competitive pitch against Dentsu earlier this month.

This partnership with Leo New York is part of Subway’s broader effort to evolve its marketing strategy into one that is “transformative” and more guest-centric. Known for its athlete-focused campaigns featuring stars like Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, and Simone Biles, Subway is looking to refine its approach while staying true to its iconic “Eat Fresh” message.

Lyons’ departure from PepsiCo comes at a pivotal time for both companies. PepsiCo is navigating challenges with its flagship brand as it explores new categories like prebiotic sodas, while Subway is continuing its turnaround strategy under Walsh's leadership. This includes a series of menu refreshes, restaurant remodels, and the expansion of franchise agreements worldwide.

In 2023, Subway sold itself to Roark Capital, marking a major shift from the brand's earlier struggles. Subway's expansion plans are a significant reversal from previous years, when the brand was shrinking its footprint in key markets and dealing with franchisee disputes. The hiring of Lyons is expected to bring renewed focus and innovation to Subway’s marketing, positioning the sandwich chain for further success in the years ahead.