McDonald’s UK&I CEO to step down

The CEO of McDonald’s UK&I, Alistair Macrow, has announced he is stepping down after four years in the role, as he looks to “pursue other UK-based opportunities outside McDonald’s”.  

Macrow will leave the group at the end of September and will provide a period of transition to support Lauren Schultz, who succeeds him as CEO on 1 September. 

Schultz joins having held the position of Field VP Columbus, McDonald’s USA, which spans 1,200 restaurants and approximately 180 franchisees across seven states. 

The group said she is a “proven leader” with “deep experience” across many areas of the business during her 16-year career at McDonald’s. 

Macrow has been with McDonald’s since 2007, and has held a number of leadership positions in the UK and globally. Prior to assuming the role of CEO in 2021, he was global chief marketing officer prior.

Manu Steijaert, president of international operated markets at McDonald’s, said: “Alistair has led one of our most important markets outside the US with deep integrity. He leaves the business with trading momentum, growth and a strong brand. As CEO, he guided the UK&I through a period of inflation and economic uncertainty. A relentless focus on the customer and reliable value have been hallmarks of his leadership, growing revenues, customer visits and market share during his four-year tenure. 

“Our restaurant footprint has been expanded by over 100 new openings and McDonald’s is providing faster service with higher customer satisfaction. He moves on to his next chapter with our great thanks and our respect for his significant contribution to the McDonald’s system.”  

Macrow added: “It’s been an honour to lead McDonald’s in the U.K. and Ireland. I’m proud we’ve emerged stronger from Covid and risen to the cost-of-living challenge for our millions of customers every day. This is a special company with great people operating across an unrivalled system. I want to thank everyone for their hard work, their expertise and their friendship.”  

Schultz said: “I am excited to take on the role of CEO in the UK&I, the business and brand are in a great place, and I look forward to partnering with and learning from our people, franchisees and suppliers to continue that momentum. After 16 years within the McDonald’s System, I can’t wait to share my perspectives with the team alongside my passion of providing the best possible experience to all of our customers and colleagues.”