OAK BROOK, Ill. — The past year has been challenging for McDonald’s as it faced declining sales, but shortly after announcing plans to introduce new service models, healthier fare and digital innovations, Don Thompson has announced plans to retire in March as president and CEO.
Steve Easterbrook, senior EVP and chief brand officer, will replace Thompson as president and CEO and join the Board of Directors. “It’s tough to say goodbye to the McFamily, but there is a time and season for everything. I am truly confident as I pass the reins over to Steve, that he will continue to move our business and brand forward,” said Thompson, who joined McDonald’s in 1990 as an electrical engineer, then rose through the ranks, becoming president of McDonald’s U.S.A. and global COO.
The Board of Directors also announced that Peter Bensen, senior EVP and CFO will become the new chief administrative officer. Kevin Ozan, SVP and corporate controller, will take Bensen’s place as EVP and CFO.
Meanwhile, according to an AP report, an unspecified number of employees at McDonald’s head office in Oak Brook, Ill., and elsewhere were notified of layoffs on Wednesday.
