McDonald’s UK & Ireland has appointed company veteran Danielle Harris as its new chief people officer.
Beginning her role today (1 October), she brings more than 12 years of experience within the McDonald’s system to the role. Most recently, Harris served as vice president of global people partner for corporate functions, where she helped guide major business transformation initiatives.
During her career with the fast food giant, Harris has held several other senior people leadership positions, including US segment talent lead, Atlanta field people officer, and global talent strategy leader.
She also led the people strategy across more than 1,500 restaurants in the southeastern US, partnering with franchisees and field leaders to strengthen talent, engagement and business performance.
“I am thrilled to be joining the UK & Ireland business,” said Harris. “McDonald’s success is built on the incredible people who power our restaurants, offices and franchise businesses every day. Having already met many talented colleagues across the market, I am excited to build on the strong culture that is already in place.
“Even from afar, it has been inspiring to see the impact of the business’s people initiatives, particularly its recent work experience programme. The commitment to creating opportunities, investing in development and helping people build rewarding careers shines through, and I am looking forward to playing a part in that.”
McDonald’s UK & Ireland CEO Lauren Schultz added: “Danielle’s extensive leadership experience, strong partnership with Franchisees and broad people expertise makes her exceptionally well placed to lead our people strategy across the UK & Ireland.
“I am delighted to welcome Danielle to the business and know she will build on the strong foundations already in place, while helping us continue to attract, develop and support the talented people who are at the heart of our success.”
Harris’ predecessor, James Thorne, will be taking on a senior leadership role within the global people team, based in the US.
Her appointment follows a string of changes in the McDonald’s UK & Ireland senior leadership team in recent months.
In May, the business appointed Tim Kenward as chief marketing officer to oversee all aspects of the marketing function. He brings more than 15 years of end-to-end marketing experience across the McDonald’s system to the role.
Just last month, McDonald’s appointed Lee Homer as its new chief restaurant officer, bringing more than 25 years of leadership experience across retail, hospitality and consumer-facing businesses.
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