McDonald's Adds Global Chief Brand Officer

McDonald's Corp. (Oak Brook, Ill.) has named Steve Easterbrook to the newly created post of executive vp and global chief brand officer. Easterbrook, who serves as president and ceo of McDonald's U.K. and president of Europe's Northern Division, will oversee marketing, menu innovation, consumer insights and other global brand assets, as well as provide strategic leadership on corporate social responsibility and restaurant architecture.

“Our customers rely on our brand to deliver high quality food at the convenience and value they expect from McDonald's,” says president and chief operating officer Don Thompson.” This strategic position will help us better serve and connect with our customers.”

McDonald's ceo Jim Skinner adds, “This new position is a natural evolution of our commitment to our customers and our pledge to be better, not just bigger.”

Easterbrook’s career with the company spans 16 years. In 2006, he was appointed ceo of the U.K., and added responsibility for Sweden, Finland, Denmark, Norway, and Ireland in 2007.

Jill McDonald, who is currently chief marketing officer for Northern Europe, will succeed Easterbrook as ceo of the U.K. and president of Northern Europe. McDonald joined the company in 2006, having worked with such global brands such as Colgate Palmolive and British Airways.