Taco Bell global COO jumps to C-suite at Chipotle
Chipotle Mexican Grill made a series of leadership announcements, including the departure of a longtime company executive and the appointment of a new COO.
The fast-casual restaurant giant has named Jason Kidd as chief operating officer, effective May 19. Kidd will be responsible for overseeing operations of Chipotle's nearly 3,800 restaurants and will report directly to CEO Scott Boatwright. Kidd is joining Chipotle as president and chief strategy officer Jack Hartung, a nearly 25-year company veteran, plans to step down from his current role on June 1.
Kidd arrives at Chipotle from Taco Bell, which he joined in February 2024 as global chief operating officer. Prior to that, he was president of Hearing Lab Technology. Before that, he spent six years leading operations at 99 Cents Only Stores, including serving as president and chief operating officer.
Kidd also held roles of increasing responsibility across operations, merchandising, planning and supply chain at Sam's Club for 20 years.
"Kidd brings proven accomplishments and a wealth of knowledge that will further support our 130,000 team members in our restaurants with delivering exceptional hospitality to our guests," said Boatwright, who took the reins as CEO in November 2024. "His vast operational experience at large scale multi-unit retail will bring a strong foundation and new strategic thinking to our executive team."
Jack Hartung
Although Hartung will step down from his current role on June 1, he will remain with Chipotle as a senior advisor prior to his retirement in March 2026. Hartung, who joined Chipotle in 2002 and has held various titles including chief financial and administrative officer, has spent the last nine months working alongside Boatwright and CFO Adam Rymer as they took on their new roles.
The smooth transition is a testament to Chipotle's strong talent bench and thoughtful succession planning as it continues to execute against its strategic plan, the company said.
"Jack's contributions to Chipotle over nearly three decades are immeasurable, and I'm extremely grateful for his leadership, guidance and friendship," said Boatwright. "Jack's selfless decision to delay his retirement and aid the organization through our leadership transition will never be forgotten, and I extend my sincerest gratitude for the instrumental role he played in ensuring Chipotle always delivered on its purpose."
As part of Hartung's transition, Curt Garner, chief customer and technology officer, will expand his scope of responsibility to oversee supply chain as the president, chief strategy and technology officer. In conjunction, Chris Brandt, chief brand officer, will lead a cross-functional team to drive all menu and ingredient processes as president, chief brand officer.
As of March 1, Chipotle has nearly 3,800 restaurants in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Kuwait and United Arab Emirates. It is the only restaurant company of its size that owns and operates all its restaurants in North America and Europe.
