(US and Canada) McDonald’s has announced that effective August 1, Valerie Ashbaugh will assume the role of Chief Information Officer and Senior Vice President for McDonald’s USA. This appointment is part of a strategic leadership transition aimed at expanding the scope and impact of the company’s technology leadership across the System.

Ashbaugh is recognized as a proven leader and change agent with a strong background in digital transformation across the value chain. She has led high-performing teams across industries including retail, athletic fashion, aerospace, and high-tech. In her most recent role at McDonald’s, she led the transformation of the company’s consumer and restaurant platforms, standardizing global systems and launching new capabilities such as loyalty programs, Ready on Arrival, expanded ordering channels, and Sesame — McDonald’s most stable point-of-sale system to date.

She has also overseen the engineering of key innovations, including the integration and development of AI solutions now undergoing rapid prototyping and testing. Additionally, Ashbaugh led a significant technology transformation by establishing a product operating model and building a modern engineering organization. Her efforts included cross-functional work to expand engineering teams in Mexico and India, enabling the delivery of next-generation capabilities.

Known for her authentic leadership style and ability to motivate diverse global teams, Ashbaugh brings a track record of consistent operational excellence. In her new role leading U.S. Technology, she is expected to apply her global perspective, product expertise, and commitment to team development to advance McDonald’s U.S. technology strategy and execution.