McDonald’s UK & Ireland has appointed company veteran Patrick Gerber as chief restaurant officer.
He will be responsible for leading operations for the 1,450 restaurants across the UK and Ireland, succeeding Zoe Hamburger, who has been promoted to managing director of McDonald’s Netherlands.
Gerber brings more than 25 years of experience at the fast food giant to the role, having started his career in 1999 as a crew member in Switzerland.
He joins the UK and Ireland leadership team from McDonald’s Canada, where he served as senior director of national operations from 2021 and most recently as field vice president east since 2023.
“I’m excited to be joining the UK and Ireland business and deliver on the opportunities this market offers,” said Gerber. ”With an ambitious growth plan already in motion, it’s a great time to be taking a role leading our restaurants to build on a legacy of success – driving innovation and enhancing operational excellence.
“I’m looking forward to working with our talented team and franchisees to continue delivering an outstanding experience to customer in every restaurant, every day.”
Gerber’s appointment marks the latest shake-up of McDonald’s UK & Ireland senior team. Just last week, CEO Alistair Macrow announced he would be leaving the business later this month after four years.
The fast food chain said he was stepping down to “pursue other UK-based opportunities outside McDonald’s”.
Lauren Schultz, who has spent the past 16 years in various roles at the fast food chain, stepped into the role of UK and Ireland CEO on 1 September.
In May, McDonald’s promoted Ben Fox to UK & Ireland chief marketing officer. He previously held the role of senior director of marketing and strategy for EMEA international development licenses, where he played a key role in shaping brand and business strategy across 36 markets.
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