KFC UK and Ireland names new general manager

KFC UK and Ireland has named Rob Swain as the new general manager for the UK and Ireland business, effective 1 March 2025.

Swain will be replacing Meg Farren, who is being promoted to president of North America for Yum! Brands’ sister brand Taco Bell.

He joins as general manager from KFC Global, where he has served as chief operating officer since 2022.

Swain has been with the brand for more than 15 years, starting as an area manager in 2009, before progressing to several leadership roles within the UK&I and Central and Eastern Europe teams.

While serving as chief operating officer for the UK&I from 2016 to 2022, he defined and led the strategic roadmap for operations in the market.

Scott Mezvinsky, CEO, KFC Global, said: “Rob is an exceptional business leader. His impact on the business globally has been transformative and he has a remarkable ability to inspire and galvanise people, teams and markets across the globe.

“As KFC in the UK&I continues to thrive as the nation’s favourite fried chicken restaurant, I am confident that Rob will propel the business to new heights – championing and developing our people and delivering growth for KFC and all our stakeholders.”

Swain added: “I am immensely proud to be taking on the role of general manager for the UK and Ireland business, returning to where I started my KFC journey over 15 years ago. It is such an exciting time to be coming back to lead one of KFC’s boldest and most innovative markets as the brand continues to cement its leadership position and grow share in an increasingly dynamic market. Restaurant teams are the heart of this growth, and I am looking forward to continuing to develop this iconic brand across the UK and Ireland in this next chapter of our business.”