Guiding the way for others comes pretty naturally for hardworking Spiders. We love hunting down their stories to share with all of you, and we’re excited for this one that’s hot off the press!

Dan Gertsacov, ’97, has been named to the first-ever role of global chief marketing officer for Focus Brands, Inc. — think parent company of Auntie Anne’s, Carvel, Cinnabon, Jamba Juice, and a lot more. A former Fulbright scholar in Chile, he graduated from UR with a dual honors degree in economics and international development before playing semi-professional rugby and graduating from the Harvard Business School. Pretty impressive, if you ask us.

"Dan's digital roots and his deep experience deploying effective, data-driven marketing strategies will prove invaluable for our brands," CEO Steve DeSutter said in a news release. "He has a great blend of experience with 'fast company' cultures, high-growth startups and a huge, multinational restaurant brand.”

Congratulations on the new role, Dan!