James D. Farley, Jr. Elected to McDonald's Board of Directors

Rhea-AI Summary

McDonald's (NYSE: MCD) announced the election of James D. Farley, Jr. to its Board of Directors, effective February 4, 2026. Farley is currently President and CEO of Ford and brings over 30 years of global leadership in brand transformation, digital innovation, and operations.

His addition increases the Board to 12 members, with half of directors joining since 2022, reflecting a focus on director refreshment and succession planning to support McDonald's strategic direction.

Positive

• 30+ years of global leadership experience added to the Board
• Board size increased to 12 members with continued director refreshment since 2022

Negative

• None.

CHICAGO, Feb. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- McDonald's Corporation (NYSE: MCD) today announced the election of James D. Farley, Jr., to its Board of Directors, effective February 4, 2026. 

Mr. Farley currently serves as President and CEO of Ford Motor Company and sits on Ford's Board of Directors, where he is guiding the company's Ford+ transformation, a strategy centered on digital innovation, customer-centric design, and operational modernization. He brings more than 30 years of experience leading complex global organizations and transforming iconic consumer brands. He previously served as chief operating officer and president of new businesses, technology and strategy teams. 

Earlier in his career at Ford, Farley held leadership roles overseeing Ford Europe, Middle East, and Africa; Global Marketing, Sales & Service; the ongoing reinvention of the Lincoln brand; and Ford's operations in Canada, Mexico, and South America.

Prior to Ford, he spent nearly two decades at Toyota and Lexus in brand marketing and product leadership.

"Jim brings invaluable experience balancing innovation with operational excellence, modernizing customer experience, engaging independent operators, and harnessing technology to improve systems at scale," said Chris Kempczinski, Chairman and CEO of McDonald's Corporation. "His leadership in optimizing a business today while building tomorrow will be useful as we continue to drive momentum across our business."

"McDonald's is one of the most admired and recognized brands in the world," said Farley. "I've long respected how the company balances scale with local entrepreneurship and tradition with innovation. I'm honored to join their world-class values-based Board and look forward to contributing to McDonald's next era of growth."

His election brings the Board to a total of 12 members, each contributing diverse experience and expertise that strengthen McDonald's long‑term strategic direction. The Board continuously focuses on thoughtful director succession planning to ensure it reflects the skills needed to guide the Company's future. Notably, half of McDonald's directors have joined since 2022, reinforcing the Board's commitment to refreshment and future‑ready governance.

About McDonald's
McDonald's is the world's leading global foodservice retailer with over 45,000 locations in over 100 countries. Approximately 95% of McDonald's restaurants worldwide are owned and operated by independent local business owners.

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SOURCE McDonald's Corporation

FAQ

Who is James D. Farley, Jr. and why was he elected to McDonald's Board (MCD)?

He is President and CEO of Ford with more than 30 years of leadership experience. According to McDonald's, his background in digital innovation, customer experience, and operational modernization will support board-level strategy and governance as McDonald's pursues growth.

When did James D. Farley, Jr. officially join McDonald's Board of Directors (MCD)?

His election became effective on February 4, 2026. According to McDonald's, the appointment was announced on February 10, 2026 and brings the board to a total of 12 members focused on succession planning and strategic oversight.

What experience does James Farley bring that could matter to McDonald's investors (MCD)?

Farley brings experience in brand transformation, digital strategy, and global operations at major automakers. According to McDonald's, his expertise in balancing innovation with operational excellence may inform decisions on technology, customer experience, and scaling initiatives.

How does James Farley's election affect the composition of McDonald's Board (MCD)?

The Board now totals 12 members, reflecting recent refreshment with half joining since 2022. According to McDonald's, this continues the company's director succession planning to ensure the Board has skills aligned with future strategy.

Will James Farley's role at Ford conflict with his duties on McDonald's Board (MCD)?

He will serve as a McDonald's director while remaining Ford CEO, a common dual role for corporate leaders. According to McDonald's, his election was presented as complementary experience to strengthen board governance and strategic guidance.