OAK BROOK, Ill. — Chris Kempczinski, executive vice president of strategy, business development and innovation at McDonald’s Corp., has been tapped to lead the fast-food company’s US business upon the retirement of Mike Andres at the end of the year.
A 30-year veteran of the company, Andres assumed the role of president of McDonald’s USA in 2014, overseeing the company’s largest market, with more than 15,500 restaurants in the United States and Canada. Under his leadership, McDonald’s most recently has removed artificial preservatives and high-fructose corn syrup from a number of menu items and introduced all-day breakfast nationwide. Importantly, the segment returned to growth last year after seven straight quarters of sales declines.
“As we thank Mike for his contributions, we are confident Chris is the right leader to build upon our US progress and bring a new level of convenience and excitement to the restaurant experience,” said Steve Easterbrook, president and CEO of McDonald’s. “His proven track record of driving change is invaluable as we continue to transform McDonald’s into a modern, progressive burger company.”
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| Chris Kempczinski |
Prior to joining the company last year, Kempczinski held various strategy and operational positions with leading consumer companies. Most recently, he was executive vice president, growth initiatives and president of international at Kraft Foods Group. In the months ahead, he will begin to focus his efforts on the US business alongside Andres to ensure a smooth transition.
“I look forward to building upon the significant progress in the US and continuing the innovation and collaboration among our owner-operators, suppliers and employees to take McDonald's to the next level,” Kempczinski said.
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| Doug Goare |
McDonald’s announced additional changes to the leadership team. Doug Goare, president of International Lead Markets, will assume additional responsibility as chief restaurant officer. Goare will oversee a number of business functions managed by Pete Benson, chief administrative officer, who is retiring in September. Goare’s expanded responsibilities include supply chain, information technology, global restaurant operations, development and digital business functions.
Additionally, Lucy Brady will join the company in September as senior vice president of corporate strategy and business development. Brady will succeed Kempczinski in overseeing strategy development, planning and innovation. Previously, she was a senior partner and managing director at The Boston Consulting Group.
“I am confident we have the right leaders in place to accelerate our turnaround and further strengthen the McDonald's brand,” Easterbrook said.
