McDonald’s Names New U.S. President as Q2 Sales Slow, Marking U.S. Turnaround Effort

McDonald’s has named Skye Anderson as President of McDonald’s USA, signaling a sharpened focus on improving its performance in its largest market after U.S. comparable sales growth slowed to just 0.8% in the second quarter of 2026—down from 2.5% a year earlier. The company reported its second-quarter results on August 4, 2026, underscoring the urgency behind this leadership decision. Global systemwide sales rose 5%, while consolidated revenues were up 4%, and diluted earnings per share increased 6% to $3.32 (GAAP), or roughly $3.38 excluding restructuring charges. The appointment is aimed at accelerating the value proposition and operational execution in the U.S. market. 

This leadership change comes amid a broader deceleration in McDonald’s U.S. business. Comparable sales in international operated markets grew 1.5%, and in developmental licensed markets increased 1.9%, but these gains were modest compared to prior-year trends. The slowdown in the U.S.—a key driver of McDonald’s global growth—has raised concerns, prompting the company to install a dedicated executive to reinvigorate its U.S. strategy and execution. 

Investors and stakeholders will be watching how Skye Anderson’s leadership impacts U.S. comparable sales, franchisee profitability, and McDonald’s value offerings. While Q2 results show resilience in revenue and earnings, the underlying softness in the U.S. market highlights the importance of restoring momentum where it matters most. 

With McDonald’s stock recently trading at about $255.69 as of September 4, 2026—a decline of roughly 0.9%—investors will await signs of renewed consumer traction in the U.S. alongside any strategic shifts under Anderson’s leadership.