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 cultivating talent with diverse experiences. Valerie previously led the transformation of the company’s technology platforms, launching initiatives like the loyalty program and enhancing ordering systems. Her focus on engineering and innovation, including AI integration, has been pivotal in McDonald’s Tech Transformation initiative. In her new role, she aims to advance McDonald’s technology strategy in the US, reinforcing the company’s dedication to operational excellence and customer experience through diverse leadership.
Valerie Ashbaugh has been appointed as the 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, including 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, particularly with the integration of AI solutions currently in rapid prototyping and testing phases.
She has been instrumental in the company’s Tech Transformation initiative, creating 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 position 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, along with 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 remains at the forefront of technology and customer experience.
