FT. LAUDERDALE, Fla., July 9, 2013 -- /PRNewswire/ -- Retail advertising powerhouse Zimmerman Advertising marks a new phase in the agency's evolution with the appointment of two new leaders, including Papa John's International Inc. Chief Marketing Officer, Andrew Varga to agency president and the promotion of current president, Pat Patregnani to Chief Executive Officer.  

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Having had Papa John's as a client since 1998, Zimmerman Advertising has worked closely with company executives, including Varga, to fuel major growth within the QSR pizza segment. Varga played a significant role in the development of Papa John's digital, branding and creative equity and his experience will further strengthen Zimmerman's influence in the market.

"Our work with Papa John's has grown into a true partnership over the years," said Jordan Zimmerman, Founder and Chairman of Zimmerman Advertising. "The friendship we have forged and the professional counsel we have shared has made both organizations stronger and we have no doubt our collective momentum will continue."

"I am grateful for the great experience and learning I had as part of the Papa John's team and I am excited to continue to work with the brand as well as the rest of the exciting clients represented at Zimmerman Advertising in my new role as agency president," said Andrew Varga.

Varga will work closely with new Zimmerman Advertising CEO Pat Patregnani, who shifts from his current role of President. With more than three decades of experience in the retail advertising industry, Patregnani has been an essential component of the Zimmerman leadership team since 1997 and will continue to cultivate and build the agency in his new role as CEO.   

The moves are all a part of what the agency calls "Zimmerman 3.0." Having established their reputation as national brand builders, Zimmerman Advertising reached more than $3 billion in annual billings in 2012. Now, with the implementation of "Zimmerman 3.0," the agency hopes to further dominate segments such as retail, restaurant and automotive as well as tap into new markets.

Beyond the agency's drive to fuel further growth, the strategic appointments also come as part of an internal cultural overhaul including a refocusing of company values and vision.  Newly appointed CEO, Patregnani has not only been a force behind brand building and driving next day sales for clients, he has been an inspirational leader with an ethos of communication and support for the entire Zimmerman team. "With Patregnani in place as CEO and Varga as president, we have put together a leadership team that will stimulate our Zimmerman Advertising 'Cultural Evolution' and maximize the impact of the incredible talent we have here," said Jordan Zimmerman.

"I plan to continue to nurture the personal, professional and spiritual growth of the individuals who make up the Zimmerman team. It is the collective talent and dedication of our team members that has made this agency a success and it is what will lead us to further growth and accomplishment," said Patregnani. "Having worked closely with Andrew Varga over the last two years I have seen firsthand his vast brand building skills and I am thrilled to have him as a vital part of our leadership team moving forward."