How McDonald’s Is Strengthening Its C-Suite To Unlock Growth

McDonald’s has announced two new C-Suite appointments that will contribute to the company’s commitment to fuelling growth and enhancing its market advantage.

The fast-food chain's CEO, Chris Kempczinski, announced in a post on LinkedIn on 26 September that Emily Reasor will join the brand in October as Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO).

Chris said: “This hire signals our intent to make strategy a dynamic capability - one that drives execution, unlocks growth and strengthens our competitive edge.”

McDonald’s has also created the role of Chief Data, Analytics and AI Officer, which will be occupied by Das Dasgupta.

Discussing Das' appointment, McDonald’s President of Global Business Services Skye Anderson said in a LinkedIn post: “As we continue our transformative journey here at McDonald’s, data, analytics and AI play a vital role in our success.

“It’s essential we have a bold vision and a world-class team leading the way.”

Who are the new chiefs?

Emily has spent nearly 18 years as a Senior Partner at McKinsey & Company, where she worked within B2C sectors and focused on breakout growth and analytics issues, according to her LinkedIn.

Announcing her appointment, Chris said: “As we unlock the next chapter of our growth, Emily will work across our global business to identify new opportunities, embed strategic discipline into how we operate and ensure our priorities remain anchored in what matters most to our customers, communities and the McDonald’s system.

“Welcome to the McFamily, Emily - I look forward to all the exciting work to come.”

As the company’s first Chief Data, Analytics and AI Officer, Das brings more than 25 years of experience across Fortune 500 companies to the role.

His career has spanned a range of industries, including being Director and Head of North America of Customer Experience at Amazon and Chief Data and Analytics Officer at Starbucks.

In the role, Skye says that Das will “lead the development and execution of our enterprise-wide strategy” and he will work closely with executives and global technology partners to “unlock new possibilities to better run and grow our business through data, analytics and AI”.

Sharing her trust in his experience, she added: “I’m confident he’ll bring bold thinking and a collaborative spirit that this role requires - and in only a short few weeks, his passion, curiosity and commitment to driving real business impact here at McDonald’s are already being felt.”

The new McDonald’s exec shared on LinkedIn: “I’m humbled and excited to share that I’ll be joining McDonald’s as Global Chief Data Analytics and AI Officer.

“My commitment is simple: listen first, learn from our crew and franchisees, and work side-by-side to turn data into everyday decisions that make experiences faster, easier and more personal - all with strong governance, privacy and ethics.”

Changes in the McDonald’s C-Suite

In September, McDonald’s appointed two new executives to its Global Impact Team, tasked with delivering purpose, impact and sustainability.

The team, established in late 2020, drives strategy and accountability across climate resources, people and community impact.

Its tasks include setting and driving climate goals, working with suppliers to ensure responsible sourcing, developing DEI strategies and publishing the brand’s purpose and impact reporting.

Kathy Baird was announced to assume the role of Chief Impact Officer for McDonald’s USA and Senior Vice President, and Anne Hammer was named as Vice President and Global Chief Communications Officer.

Jon Banner, Executive Vice President and Global Chief Impact Officer at the company, said at the time of their appointment: “In today’s fast-changing world, our ability to protect the Arches is more vital than ever. That’s why I’m thrilled to welcome two new leaders to Global Impact, who will help raise the bar for how we show up during moments that matter.”

McDonald’s recent appointments show its commitment to their teams’ continuing growth strategies.