Jack in the Box Inc. names new COO
Jack in the Box Inc. is continuing with its flurry of C-suite changes.
The quick-serve giant has announced the return of Shannon McKinney as senior VP, chief operating officer and new member of the executive leadership team. McKinney has more than 25 years of restaurant industry experience, and served at Jack in the Box from March 2019 to August 2021 as VP of operations and brand performance.
Most recently, McKinney served as VP of operations at Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen. His previous stints include roles at Bloomin' Brands and Taco Bell.
Ryan Ostrom, Jack in the Box’s chief customer & digital officer, will continue to lead the broader customer experience and strategy. McKinney joins Ostrom’s team to “drive operational excellence and scale execution” across the Jack in the Box system.
“As COO, Shannon will oversee Jack’s operations team, with a focus on strengthening the core of our business to deliver great experiences for both our team members and our guests,” said Ostrom. “Those who have worked with Shannon in the past describe him as a hands-on leader who listens first, positively leads and influences with purpose, and empowers his team, which are qualities that make him a strong fit for our culture and the reason why we are excited to have him back.”
The return of McKinney is one of several recent C-suite moves for Jack in the Box. In May, the chain welcomed back another previous employee, Dawn Hooper, to serve as chief financial officer. In April, Lance Tucker was named CEO of Jack in the Box following the resignation of Darrin Harris.
“I am so excited to step into this role as Jack’s chief operating officer,” said McKinney. “I look forward to helping the brand reach a higher level of quality, while partnering with Ryan to unlock growth by delivering consistent, craveable guest experiences that keep our brand top of mind and drive long-term loyalty.”
[READ MORE: Jack in the Box to close 'underperforming' stores; eyes sale of Del Taco]
Based in San Diego, Jack in the Box operates approximately 2,180 Jack in the Box restaurants across 22 states, and approximately 590 Del Taco restaurants across 17 states.
