November 3, 2019
The McDonald’s board of directors demanded Steve Easterbrook step down from his roles as CEO and President after an investigation performed by the company which determined he violated policy by engaging in a consensual relationship with an employee, in a statement by McDonald’s corporation.
According to CNN, Easterbrook sent an email to Mcdonalds employees stating:
"As for my departure, I engaged in a recent consensual relationship with an employee, which violated McDonald's policy," Easterbrook wrote. "This was a mistake. Given the values of the company, I agree with the board that it is time for me to move on. Beyond this, I hope you can respect my desire to maintain my privacy."
Easterbrook, 52, began leading McDonald’s operations in 2015 where he was instrumental in large changes with development of modernizing the mega fast food chain by introducing digital menu boards, remodeled and updated stores, mobile ordering, and partnering with delivery services GrubHub Inc, Uber Eats and Postmates.
Chris Kempczinski, 51, replaces both president and CEO roles at McDonald’s USA. The company has not released and further details on Easterbrook's severance package or who the mystery employee was involved.
