Taco Bell veteran named Jack in the Box president, next CEO
Jack in the Box Inc. has named its future CEO.
The quick-serve hamburger chain’s board of directors has appointed Taylor Montgomery as president, effective Sept. 14. In the newly-created role, Montgomery will lead Jack in the Box’s brand strategy, with a focus on driving sustainable sales growth, improving franchisee profitability, and positioning the company for long-term success.
Montgomery’s appointment marks the “next step” in Jack in the Box’s previously announced succession plan. He is expected to assume the role of CEO within the next 12 months, and will also join the board at that time. During the transition, Montgomery will work alongside executive chairman and interim CEO Mark King, who will remain chairman following the transition.
[READ MORE: Jack in the Box centralizes inventory at all stores]
Montgomery most recently served as global chief brand officer at Taco Bell, where he led the brand’s growth strategy, overseeing more than 9,000 restaurants. He spent a year in the role, and held multiple positions, including chief marketing officer, at the quick-serve chain for more than 10 and a half years.
Before joining Taco Bell, Montgomery spent more than six years at Procter & Gamble.
“Jack in the Box is an iconic brand with tremendous potential, and I am excited to help lead its next chapter and create lasting value for the company and its shareholders,” said Montgomery. “I look forward to working alongside Mark, the leadership team, and our franchisees to accelerate same-store sales growth, strengthen restaurant-level execution, and bring more guests to Jack in the Box.”
King was named interim CEO following the departure of Lance Tucker in May. King, a member of the Jack in the Box board since November 2025 and its chair since March 2026, is the former CEO of Taco Bell Corp.
“I am thrilled to welcome Taylor to Jack in the Box. He is a proven leader with a track record of driving sustainable brand growth and results, and I have seen his ability to execute firsthand,” said King. “Taylor brings a deep understanding of the franchised QSR industry, and I am confident he will advance our strategy and vision. I look forward to working together as we build on our momentum.”
Headquartered in San Diego, Jack in the Box Inc. operates approximately 2,115 restaurants across 25 states, Mexico and Guam. Late last year, the company sold Del Taco Holdings Inc. to Yadav Enterprises for approximately $119 million.
