McDonald’s New Zealand has confirmed new appointments in three key positions: Dave Howse as managing director, Jo Mitchell as director of marketing and Brid Drohan-Stewart as Head of Marketing.
Dave Howse started his career at McDonald’s 32 years ago and has held various positions in several markets, including New Zealand, Australia and South Africa. He has now worked his way up the ranks to the top position, following Patrick Wilson’s departure as managing director in earlier in 2016.
“I started as a crew member back in 1984 and my career has taken me and my family around the world. While I am an Aussie, I’ve worked in the New Zealand business before and am happy to call New Zealand home again,” he says.
“I’m excited about the challenges and opportunities that lay ahead for me and the corporate team and franchisees. I’ve come into a business with great momentum. We’ve been listening to our customers and launches like All Day Breakfast, barista-made McCafe coffee at Drive-Thru and Create Your Taste have been well received.
“We also know that with the Golden Arches, comes a duty of care to act responsibly as a business and in the communities in which we operate. Whether it’s moving to free range eggs, our support of Ronald McDonald House Charities, or all the local sponsorships our franchisees support we’ll continue to challenge ourselves to help make good stuff happen around the country.”
Joining Howse in the senior management team is the new director of marketing, Jo Mitchell. With nearly 20 years of marketing experience, Mitchell has worked across brands including Charlie’s and Mondelez, before moving into the role as head of marketing at McDonald’s NZ in 2013.
“It’s an exciting time to be involved in McDonald’s in New Zealand and the opportunity to step up into a more senior role was one I couldn’t say no to,” she says.
Brid Drohan-Stewart is a recent addition to the McDonald’s crew, having joined as marketing manager only six months ago. Stepping into the role as head of marketing, Drohan-Stewart brings with her a wealth of knowledge and senior marketing experience from her time working across global brands, including Coca-Cola and Mondelez.
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