McDonald’s UK & Ireland is pleased to announce the appointment of Danielle Harris as chief people officer, effective 1 October 2026. Danielle will be responsible for leading the People agenda across the UK and Ireland business.
Harris brings more than 12 years of experience within the McDonald’s System, most recently serving as vice president, global people partner for corporate functions, where she helped guide major business transformation initiatives while ensuring a people-first approach. During her career with McDonald’s, Harris has held a number of senior People leadership positions, including U.S. segment talent lead, Atlanta field people officer and global talent strategy leader. She’s also led the people strategy across more than 1,500 restaurants in the southeastern United States, partnering closely with Franchisees and field leaders to strengthen talent, engagement and business performance.
Commenting on her appointment Harris said: “I am thrilled to be joining the UK & Ireland business. McDonald’s success is built on the incredible people who power our restaurants, offices and franchise businesses every day. Having already met many talented colleagues across the market, I am excited to build on the strong culture that is already in place. Even from afar, it has been inspiring to see the impact of the business’s people initiatives, particularly its recent work experience programme. The commitment to creating opportunities, investing in development and helping people build rewarding careers shines through, and I am looking forward to playing a part in that.”
Lauren Schultz, chief executive officer, McDonald’s UK & Ireland, said: “Danielle’s extensive leadership experience, strong partnership with Franchisees and broad people expertise makes her exceptionally well placed to lead our people strategy across the UK & Ireland. I am delighted to welcome Danielle to the business and know she will build on the strong foundations already in place, while helping us continue to attract, develop and support the talented people who are at the heart of our success.”
Danielle’s predecessor, James Thorne, will be taking on a senior leadership role within the Global People Team, based in the United States. Here, he will lead the People pillar of McDonald’s > NEXT strategy, working closely with operations to drive hospitality on both sides of the counter, and strengthening the experience of more than two million restaurant crew around the world.
