McDonald's CEO Urges Food Professionals to Take Ownership

Chris Kempczinski, CEO of McDonald's, is offering career advice to food and drink professionals that he admits may not be comforting, but is necessary for anyone looking to advance in the industry.

In a video shared on Instagram, Chris delivered what he described as "tough love" for young professionals and early-career workers in the food service sector.

His central message was blunt: no one is as invested in your career as you are.

Shifting dynamics in foodservice

The CEO said: "Remember, nobody cares about your career as much as you do. This idea that there's somebody out there who's looking out for you, who's going to make sure you get that opportunity - great if it happens."

"At the end of the day, you've got to make things happen for yourself."

The 57-year-old executive, who has led the fast-food giant since 2019, framed the advice as a reminder to take ownership rather than wait passively for guidance or promotion within the competitive food and beverage landscape.

While mentors or supportive managers can play a key role in hospitality and foodservice careers, Chris warned that relying too heavily on others to chart your path can end in disappointment.

Chris' message aligns with a broader shift away from long-term loyalty between employers and employees across the food and drink sector.

In January 2025, AT&T CEO John Stankey acknowledged in an interview with CNBC that many companies have moved toward a more market-based approach, rewarding skills and performance rather than tenure.

This trend has become particularly evident in the restaurant industry, where adaptability and innovation are increasingly valued.

For workers in food and beverage, that shift could mean career stability is no longer guaranteed and that advancement increasingly depends on self-advocacy and adaptability to changing consumer tastes and operational demands.

In a previous video, the McDonald's CEO has also highlighted practical habits that support career ownership.

One of his most basic tips is to stay organised.

Chris says he keeps a tidy inbox, computer and workspaces to maintain focus and manage his time effectively.

He said: "Staying organised is a way to keep myself focused."

Leading through industry challenges

The CEO, who joined the firm in 2015 after holding senior roles at PepsiCo and Kraft Foods, has become increasingly visible on social media, sharing short form videos about leadership, imposter syndrome and even tests of McDonald's menu items.

In October 2024, he answered some "frequently asked" questions on his Instagram platform. "How often do I eat at McDonald's?" Chris said. "I would tell you it's a lot.

"Probably three or four times a week. Sometimes it might be a breakfast, sometimes it might be a lunch.

"One of the perks of the job, you get to eat at McDonald's a lot."

Since taking over as CEO in 2019, Chris has led McDonald's through the COVID-19 pandemic and years of inflation.

In 2025, he has been grappling with a more cost-conscious customer base seeking value in their dining choices.

Navigating consumer demand

Throughout 2025, McDonald's has seen the results of promotions targeting lower-income customers including the US$5 meal deal, which was rolled out in June 2024 to address shifting consumer spending patterns in the quick-service restaurant sector.

The value-focused initiative reflects broader challenges facing the fast-food industry as consumers become more selective about discretionary spending.

McDonald's has responded by emphasising affordability whilst maintaining quality standards across its global operations.

The chain's promotional strategy has also included localised offers and digital-exclusive deals through its mobile app, aiming to drive customer frequency and basket size.

These efforts form part of a wider push to strengthen customer engagement in an increasingly competitive market.

McDonald's' most recent third quarter (Q3) 2025 results, reported on 4 November, show global comparable sales up 3.6%, driven by strong international markets (up 18%) compensating for a weaker US (down 5%).

The firm highlighted growth from loyalty programmes and new value initiatives.

Discussing the results, Chris said: "We increased global Systemwide sales by 6% and grew comp sales across all segments, a testament to our ability to deliver sustainable growth even in a challenging environment."

His most recent statement on Instagram may feel blunt, but the message is clear for food and drink professionals: support helps and mentors are valuable, but in the end, your career is your responsibility to own.