Advertisement

McDonald's announces new CEO

By Danielle Haynes
Don Thompson is retiring as CEO of McDonald's Corp. Photo courtesy of McDonald's
1 of 2 | Don Thompson is retiring as CEO of McDonald's Corp. Photo courtesy of McDonald's

OAK BROOK, Ill., Jan. 28 (UPI) -- McDonald's Corp. on Wednesday announced that CEO Don Thompson is retiring and will be replaced by Steve Easterbrook amid slumping sales.

Thompson stepped down after nearly 25 years with the fast-food company. He was president, CEO and served on the board of directors. His resignation becomes effective March 1.

Advertisement

He'll be replaced by Easterbrook, who is currently the company's chief brand officer. The British executive has led McDonald's UK and European business units, Andrew McKenna, non-executive chairman of the board of directors, said.

"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," Thompson said.

"I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with Don and congratulate him on his remarkable career at McDonald's," Easterbrook said. "I am honored to lead this great brand, and am committed to working with our franchisees, suppliers and employees to drive forward our strategic business priorities to better serve our customers."

The news came less than a week after McDonald's reported sluggish sales for the fourth quarter of 2014 and the entire year.

Advertisement

"2014 was a challenging year for McDonald's around the world. Our results declined as unforeseen events and weak operating performance pressured results in each of our geographic segments," Thompson said.

In the fourth quarter, McDonald's saw a 0.9 percent global comparable sales decrease, 1 percent for the full year.

The news of Thompson's departure broke after Wall Street closed, but after-hours trading saw a 3.18 percent increase in McDonald's shares.

Latest Headlines

Advertisement

Trending Stories

Advertisement

Follow Us

Advertisement