Key Takeaway
Valerie Ashbaugh has been appointed Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice President of McDonald’s USA, effective August 1. This leadership change highlights McDonald’s commitment to nurturing talent with diverse experiences. Valerie previously transformed McDonald’s technology platforms, launching initiatives like the loyalty program and enhancing ordering systems. Her focus on engineering and innovation includes integrating AI solutions and expanding McDonald’s engineering presence in Mexico and India. In her new role, she will leverage her global expertise to advance McDonald’s technology strategy in the U.S., reinforcing the company’s dedication to transformation and customer experience.
Valerie Ashbaugh has been named Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice President of McDonald’s USA, starting her role on 1 August.
This strategic leadership change highlights McDonald’s ongoing commitment to nurturing talent with extensive, cross-functional experience and a global outlook.
Valerie brings a wealth of knowledge from her previous position, where she led the transformation of McDonald’s consumer and restaurant technology platforms. Her leadership was crucial in standardizing systems and introducing innovative features, such as the company’s loyalty program, Ready on Arrival, new ordering channels, and Sesame, McDonald’s’ most reliable POS system to date.
Her tenure has been characterized by a strong emphasis on engineering and innovation, including the integration of AI solutions currently in rapid prototyping and testing phases.
She has been instrumental in the company’s Tech Transformation initiative, establishing a modern product operating model and expanding McDonald’s engineering presence in Mexico and India. According to McDonald’s, her authentic leadership style and ability to inspire diverse, global teams have consistently driven operational excellence throughout the organization.
In her new role overseeing technology for McDonald’s in the US, Valerie will utilize her global experience, product expertise, and dedication to team development to further enhance McDonald’s technology strategy and execution in the States.
Her appointment reinforces McDonald’s belief that diverse experiences are vital for successful leadership, alongside the company’s commitment to cultivating leaders who can drive transformation and innovation.
Valerie’s leadership is anticipated to further strengthen the US system, ensuring McDonald’s stays at the forefront of technology and customer experience.
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