Then, Easterbrook was abruptly terminated after an investigation into his relationship with a female employee. Suddenly, Kempczinski was thrust into the position as CEO, just four years after he originally joined McDonald's.
Kempczinski's quest to win over McDonald's has been largely successful so far, according to these insiders. Presenting a calm and optimistic face in response to a dramatic shakeup, Kempczinski has laid out a strategic plan in line with Easterbrook's that also emphasizes ethics and values in the face of scandal. Steve Easterbrook was well-liked at McDonald's before his shocking departure.
Hernandez Jr. also alluded to Easterbrook's departure, in discussion of the company's policy around relationships between employees. "I think that folks trust the board," said one former corporate employee who left McDonald's earlier this year. If board members determined Easterbrook's relationship was grounds for termination, "there must have been something that was driving it." When the market closed on November 1, the Friday before Easterbrook's departure, shares were trading at $193.94.
Improved financials and collaboration helped pave the way for franchisees to respond to Kempczinski's promotion with cautious optimism, as opposed to outright hostility. Kempczinski also sprang into action to fully win over franchisees and smooth over past tension. "As part of my transition into the role, I will be traveling around the country visiting restaurants and learning from all of you and your accomplishments,""You can expect that I will be observing, listening and asking lots of questions – regrounding myself in our US Business."