Chipotle Names Jason Kidd COO

Chipotle Mexican Grill has announced several leadership changes.

Jason Kidd has joined the brand as COO, effective May 19. Plus, after nearly 25 years with the company, President and Chief Strategy Officer Jack Hartung will step down from his current role on June 1 and will remain with the company as a senior advisor through next March.

In his new role, Kidd will be responsible for overseeing operations of Chipotle’s restaurants and will report directly to CEO Scott Boatwright, based in the company’s Newport Beach, Calif., headquarters. Kidd joins Chipotle from Taco Bell, where he was the global COO. His career also includes leadership roles at Hearing Lab Technology, 99 Cents Only Stores and Sam’s Club.

“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,” says Boatwright in the press release. “His vast operational experience at large scale multiunit retail will bring a strong foundation and new strategic thinking to our executive team.”

Hartung joined Chipotle in 2002 and has held various titles including chief financial and administrative officer. He has spent the last nine months working alongside Boatwright and CFO Adam Rymer as they took on their new roles.

“Jack’s contributions to Chipotle over nearly three decades are immeasurable, and I’m extremely grateful for his leadership, guidance and friendship,” Boatwright says. “Jack’s selfless decision to delay his retirement and aid the organization through our leadership transition will never be forgotten, and I extend my sincerest gratitude for the instrumental role he played in ensuring Chipotle always delivered on its purpose.”

As part of Hartung’s transition, Curt Garner, chief customer and technology officer, will expand his scope of responsibility to oversee supply chain as the president, chief strategy and technology officer. In conjunction, Chris Brandt, chief brand officer, will lead a cross-functional team to drive all menu and ingredient processes as president, chief brand officer.

Chipotle has nearly 3,800 restaurants in the U.S., Canada, the U.K., France, Germany, Kuwait and United Arab Emirates. In April, it shared its plans to open its doors in Mexico.