Chipotle has named former Taco Bell executive Jason Kidd to the role of chief operating officer, the company said Tuesday.
Kidd will be stepping in as Chipotle’s President and Chief Strategy Officer Jack Hartung plans to step down from his role on June 1, though he will remain a senior advisor for the fast-casual chain through March 2026.
In addition, Curt Garner, Chipotle’s chief customer and technology officer, will expand his scope of responsibility to oversee supply chain as president, chief strategy and technology officer, the company said.
And Chief Brand Officer Chris Brandt will add the title president to his role, leading a cross-functional team on menu and ingredient processes.
The moves come after Chipotle in the first quarter reported the first negative same-store sales trend since 2020.
It’s actually the second time Hartung has announced his retirement from Chipotle.
The former CFO, Hartung had said last year that he wanted to retire this spring. That, however, was before former CEO Brian Niccol made the surprise move to Starbucks. The company made Hartung an offer he couldn’t refuse to stick around a bit longer.
A 25-year veteran of Chipotle, Hartung has spent the past nine months working with CEO Scott Boatwright and Chief Financial Officer Adam Rymer.
Boatwright said Hartung’s contributions to the Newport Beach, California-based chain have been immeasurable.
“Jack’s selfless decision to delay his retirement and aid the organization through our leadership transition will never be forgotten, and I extend my sincere gratitude for the instrumental role he played in ensuring Chipotle always delivered on its purpose,” said Boatwright in a statement.
Kidd, meanwhile, was most recently global chief operating officer at Taco Bell. He also has led Hearing Lab Technology LLC, and is a former president and COO of 99 Cents Only Stores and spent nearly two decades with Sam’s Club.
Jason Kidd | Photo courtesy of Chipotle.
“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 in a statement. “His vast operational experience at large-scale, multi-unit retail will bring a strong foundation and new strategic thinking to our executive team.”
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