The retirement of 41-year veteran James Skinner comes as a surprise to many in the industry. His success at the helm has seen stock prices soar nearly 300 percent over the last eight years as the world’s largest restaurant brand succeeds in growing globally and domestically in a very difficult economic period. He has done a very nice” McJob” and it appears time for McDonald’s to make a “McMove”!
As Skinner steps down on June 30th, he will be succeeded by 22-year veteran Donald Thompson. Thompson will become the first African American in McDonald’s history to lead the chain and should provide strong continuity in the transition. His experience in global strategy and operations will certainly be a strength in supporting McDonald’s continued growth.
With a string of annual growth successes stories, Skinner will leave McDonald’s with the brand at the top of their game. Like many sports champions, it will not only take the talent, but the effective coaching to continue their momentum. Stay Tuned!
