DENVER – Chipotle Mexican Grill has named Jim Slater to the role of managing director in Europe. Slater will be based in the UK and will oversee the strategy, development and growth of Chipotle’s European business.

Jim Slater, managing director in Europe

“Jim not only believes in our commitment to change the way people think about and eat fast food, but he also celebrates our vision of building teams of top performers empowered to achieve high standards,” said Steve Ells, Chipotle founder, chairman, and co-CEO. “We have great confidence in his abilities and expertise, and believe his leadership will help us enhance and grow our business in Europe.”

Prior to joining Chipotle, Slater served as the managing director of Costa Coffee in the UK and Ireland, where he and his team won Marketing Society’s “Brand of the Year” award in 2011, and became The Times’ “Brand of the Decade” in 2014. Slater also worked for Mars, Kraft, Diageo and the soccer team, Sunderland AFC.

“Chipotle’s commitment to better food from ingredients raised and grown with respect for animals, farmers and the environment is consistent with how many Europeans eat and the brand is one that really resonates with customers here,” Slater said. “Looking at the success of Chipotle in the US, I know the company has tremendous opportunity in Europe and I look forward to continuing to develop the Chipotle brand in these markets.”