McDonald's Reshuffles North American Management

A number of executive changes are expected at McDonald's Corp. after July sales figures saw the lowest level of U.S. growth in three years. 

The first such move was Wednesday. The Associated Press reported that COO and President Mike Roberts resigned after 29 years with the firm. On Thursday McDonald's succession plan smoothly kicked into gear with the appointment of Roberts' replacement and the promotion of two key executives. Although the Chicago Tribune (registration needed) speculated that McDonald's North American division, Ralph Alvarez could possibly shift to a post overseas, McDonald's Corporation ended up appointing Mr. Alvarez as its new COO.  Alvarez just last month told MarketWatch that high oil prices would not impact McDonald's or dampen consumer spending. 

What a difference a month can make. 

The hamburger chain promoted Janice Fields, president of McDonald's USA's Central Division, as chief operations officer of McDonald's USA (not to be confused with McDonald's Corp.), and announced James Johannesen, chief support officer of McDonald's USA, to replace Fields as the Central Division's president. (See PR News for details.)

The shake-up of top management at McDonald's Corporation prompted surprise but little concern on Wall Street Thursday following the abrupt resignation of No. 2 executive Mike Roberts. (See AP for details.)

Speculation about who might succeed McDonald's Corporations CEO Jim Skinner is heating up as well. Reuters reports that Alvarez and current CFO Matt Paull are likely once Skinner moves on.