McDonald's Corp. replaces president of U.S. operations
BY Staff and Wire reports
Friday, November 16, 2012
11/16/12 at 4:21 AM
McDonald's Corp. is hoping a leadership shake-up for its U.S. business will help it fight off intensifying competition.
The world's biggest hamburger chain said Thursday that Jan Fields, president of McDonald's USA, will be replaced by Jeff Stratton, its global chief restaurant officer, effective Dec. 1. The announcement comes less than a week after the fast-food giant reported its first monthly sales drop since March 2003.
In a recent conference call with analysts, CEO Don Thompson said the company would return its focus on its Dollar Menu after efforts to shift customers to a slightly more expensive "Extra Value Menu" fell flat. That emphasis on value is in contrast to rivals such as Wendy's and Burger King, which have been introducing more premium offerings. Taco Bell, known for its affordable Mexican-style fare, also introduced its higher-end Cantina Bell bowls earlier this year.
Fields was named president of McDonald's USA in 2010. She started with the Oak Brook, Ill.-based company as a crew member more than 35 years ago.
Stratton also started at McDonald's as a crew member - more than 40 years ago. He previously served as chief restaurant officer for McDonald's USA.
McDonald's has more than 34,000 locations around the world, with about 14,000 in the U.S.
Associated Images:
Jan Fields: The president of McDonald's USA is being replaced following disappointing sales last month. The change is effective Dec. 1.
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