Melissa Richards-Person, widely recognized as “MRP,” is an accomplished Chief Marketing Officer with a robust 20-year-plus track record of transforming brand visions into market successes. As the visionary founder of Third Arm Consulting, she has become synonymous with being the pivotal ‘extra hand’ needed for catalyzing brand growth. Her forte lies in revitalizing emerging startups and reinvigorating established consumer brands that have reached a plateau. 

Her consultancy’s collaborative ethos is grounded in her signature Brand DNA methodology—a deep, analytical dive into a brand’s core identity. This approach not only uncovers but also leverages a company’s distinct strengths, channeling them into powerful channels for genuine growth and market distinction. Her strategic acumen has yielded impressive results across diverse sectors, propelling exponential growth by building on brands’ inherent strengths. Her portfolio showcases the revitalization of iconic brands such as Kentucky Fried Chicken, Papa Johns, and IHOP, alongside her work elevating startups and global healthcare brands. Her innovative approach and dynamic brand strategies have fostered lasting loyalty among consumers and spurred significant business expansion.

Partnering with existing brands as a Fractional Chief Marketing Officer, MRP has played a pivotal role in the relaunch of a $150M virtual restaurant venture, the development of a thriving $1M direct-to-consumer donut brand, and the acceleration of a leading Inc5000 marketing and digital agency. Her expertise in customer loyalty, go-to-market strategies, product repositioning, and marketing activations has been instrumental in reinvigorating consumer interest and fostering brand fandom, thereby altering the trajectory of brands across various industries.

Her journey includes a transformative 13-year tenure at Papa John’s International, where she rose from Senior Director of Advertising and Promotions to SVP, Chief Brand Officer, driving record sales and launching three of the company’s most successful products by rebranding and repositioning the brand for the modern market. And during her 9 years at KFC/YUM Brands, as Director of Family Meals, she rejuvenated a stagnant category, significantly boosting revenue and brand awareness.

MPR’s broad-ranging expertise shines in revitalizing marketing strategies for global behemoths and nascent startups alike, employing her novel Brand DNA approach. Her strategic approach has deepened consumer connections and propelled business growth while capturing millions in incremental profits through targeted marketing and precise customer segmentation. At the heart of her success is a relentless pursuit of innovation, breaking through traditional industry confines and introducing transformative ideas across varied business landscapes. This adaptability underscores her remarkable ability to foster growth and secure a competitive edge in a multitude of sectors.

Serving on the Portfolio Advisory Board for Capitalize VC, a women-led venture capital firm, MRP underscores her commitment to nurturing innovation and entrepreneurship. Her leadership extends to notable community and industry engagements, including her role as a Founding Board Member of APRON, INC, which supports independent restaurant workers, and her contributions to the Junior League of Louisville. And as Chapter President of Les Dames d’Escoffier, MRP further champions the advancement of women in culinary and hospitality through personal branding and audience engagement. 

Recognized by Ad Age as a “Woman to Watch,” MRP holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Syracuse University and is celebrated as one of the 50 outstanding alumni of the prestigious Newhouse School of Public Communications. Her commitment to her alma mater continues as an active member of the Newhouse School’s Advisory Board, reflecting her ongoing dedication to shaping the future of the marketing and communications industry. Her professional acumen is further enhanced by advanced certifications in Business Innovation, Designing a Business, and Designing Strategy, emphasizing her leadership and commitment to continuous learning in her field.

MRP’s unique blend of expertise, leadership, and commitment to sparking connection and actively engaging consumers establishes her as an unparalleled marketing partner for companies seeking a transformative turnaround or a vibrant jumpstart. Her track record of refreshing brands with strategic foresight and innovative approaches positions her as the go-to expert for organizations aiming to create a substantial impact on consumers and stand out in the marketplace.