NEW PRODUCT DEVELOPMENT

From tastings to launch day, here’s how I’ve helped turn product ideas into menu items guests genuinely connect with.

More Bang, Less Buck


How it Started

When I joined CKE, Carl’s Jr. was coming out of voluntary administration — and customer sentiment reflected it. Media coverage and GuestXM data were pointing to the same issue: guests felt our pricing was too high, and our points of difference weren’t clear enough.

I saw an opportunity to rebuild trust through value, without cheapening the brand.

My role

I helped shape a value strategy that still felt uniquely Carl’s Jr. Instead of discounting existing products, I worked with the team to develop new burger builds inspired by global value platforms — but tailored for Australian guests.

My contribution to the process:

  • running in-restaurant tasting sessions

  • refining builds and sauces

  • aligning with Supply Chain on feasibility

  • working with Operations to ensure procedures and builds were smooth in-store

  • collaborating with franchisees to make sure the platform worked commercially

  • guiding creative and messaging to position the range as exciting and affordable

The idea was simple:

make value feel like a win, not a compromise.

+12

NPS point increase - value perception.

+8%

Incremental transactions during launch window

Summer Spritzers Range


How it Started

This project began as a small seasonal idea — and turned into one of the most successful launches I’ve worked on.

We saw Spritzers gaining momentum overseas and noticed other QSR brands testing similar drinks. It was clear Australians were ready for something light, colourful and refreshing.

My role

I led the end-to-end development process, starting with hands-on tasting sessions at the Monin studio in Melbourne. I evaluated everything from flavour combinations and syrup strength to how the drinks looked in our clear shake cups.

Once we landed on the final builds, I managed:

  • internal CKE head office approvals

  • ingredient ordering and lead times

  • a full brand rollout including photography, creative and social assets

  • a tailored media plan to launch Spritzers nationally

  • operational communications to ensure a smooth in-store execution

Because of strong margins, we were able to price the product at $4.95 — making it an attractive value add-on while still delivering excellent commercial performance.

Sales Exceeded Forecasts by 20%

As a completely brand-new product, Spritzers outperformed projections from day one, driving a surge in demand and briefly creating supply pressure — the clearest sign that guests connected with the range immediately.

Standout Value Proposition

At $4.95, Spritzers undercut premium competitors while still feeling bright, refreshing and “special”, helping lift both meal attachment and overall guest value perception.

OTHER PRODUCT LAUNCHES

  • Hot Habanero Chicken Burger

    I helped develop a bold, spicy chicken burger aligned to a growing market trend. Working with the team, I tested sauce pairings and builds to land on a product that delivered heat, flavour and strong guest appeal.

  • Schnitz Schnuggets

    At Schnitz, I helped bring the Schnuggets concept to life — a high-quality, bite-sized version of their signature schnitzels. This became one of the brand’s most successful launches, creating a new snacking and kids’ option.

  • Biscoff shake

    Carl’s Jr. was the first QSR brand in Australia to launch a Biscoff Shake — and I supported its rollout across the network. Demand was huge, with some restaurants selling up to 20 per day. It was later re-released due to strong guest demand.