Stephen John Easterbrook (born 23 January 1967) is a British businessman who served as the chief executive officer (CEO) of McDonald’s Corporation from March 2015 until his dismissal in November 2019. He is recognised for his role in modernising the fast‑food chain’s menu and operations, as well as for his involvement in a corporate governance controversy that led to his removal.
Early life and education
Stephen John Easterbrook was born in Colchester, Essex, England. He attended Colchester County High School and later studied chemistry at the University of Sheffield, where he earned a Bachelor of Science degree. He subsequently completed a Master of Business Administration (MBA) at the University of Manchester's Alliance Manchester Business School.
Career
Early career
Easterbrook began his professional life with a brief period at the chemical firm ICI before transitioning to the food service industry. In 1993, he joined the UK operations of the restaurant chain KFC, later moving to the coffee business Starbucks, where he worked in various management roles.
McDonald’s
Easterbrook joined McDonald’s UK in 1997, holding positions in operations and development. He became managing director of McDonald’s UK in 2008 and was promoted to chief operating officer (COO) for McDonald’s Europe in 2010. In 2013, he was appointed president of McDonald’s Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA), overseeing a significant portion of the company’s global footprint.
In March 2015, Easterbrook succeeded Don Thompson as CEO of McDonald’s Corporation, becoming the first UK‑born chief executive of the company. His tenure was marked by an emphasis on technology integration, such as the rollout of self‑service kiosks, mobile ordering, and delivery partnerships. He also promoted a “Experience of the Future” initiative, which aimed to modernise restaurant interiors and expand the menu to include items such as salads, premium coffee, and plant‑based alternatives.
Dismissal
In November 2019, Easterbrook was removed from his position by the McDonald’s board after an internal investigation concluded that he had engaged in a consensual relationship with a subordinate, constituting a breach of corporate policy on relationships between senior executives and employees. He received a severance package valued at approximately $13 million.
Post‑McDonald’s
Following his departure, Easterbrook founded the SNAP (Sustainable, Nutritious, Affordable Products) platform, a venture focused on developing healthier and more sustainable food products, and has served on the boards of several technology and food‑industry companies.
Legal and regulatory aftermath
After his dismissal, Easterbrook faced a lawsuit from a former colleague alleging retaliation and wrongful termination. In 2022, a Texas court ruled in favor of the plaintiff, awarding damages that were later partially reduced on appeal. The case highlighted ongoing discussions regarding corporate governance and executive conduct.
Personal life
Easterbrook is married to Janine Landsman, a former McDonald’s senior executive. The couple has children. He has been involved in charitable activities, including support for youth education and nutrition programmes.
Recognition
- Listed among the “World’s 100 Most Influential CEOs” by Harvard Business Review (2018).
- Received the “International Business Leader of the Year” award from the International Association of Business Communicators (2017).
References
- McDonald’s Corporation. “Steve Easterbrook Biography.” Corporate website, 2018.
- “McDonald’s Fires CEO Over Inappropriate Relationship.” The New York Times, 9 November 2019.
- “Steve Easterbrook’s Post-McDonald’s Ventures.” Financial Times, 15 March 2021.
Note: All information presented is based on publicly available, verifiable sources as of the knowledge cutoff date.
