McDonald’s Australia has appointed a new CEO, at the same time announcing current boss Andrew Gregory will be moving to the global role of corporate senior vice president, global franchising officer, on 1 May 2022.

Antoni Martinez, a McDonald’s Australia alumni and current managing director of McDonald’s Korea, takes up the Australian managing director and CEO mantle.

Both executives joined the business as crew members and have worked their way up to senior leadership positions.

Gregory joined the global fast-food chain in 1996 as a crew person, worked his way up to become chief financial officer and took on the top job in 2014.

“McDonald’s Australia is one of McDonald’s largest and most successful markets in terms of growth, employment and economic impact,” he said. “I am proud to be handing the reins of this great company to Antoni at a time of strong, sustained performance.

“As I step up and into a global position, I have every confidence that he is the best leader to return home and drive the plans for our continued growth, innovation and success.”

During Gregory’s tenure as CEO McDonald’s Australia has delivered consistent and record growth in sales, profitability and market share, led by coffee, delivery and digital purchases.

Martinez started in a Melbourne crew in 2000; he went on to become development director and market director of the southern region, taking on responsibility for operations, franchising and marketing for more than 300 restaurants.

In February 2020, Martinez relocated to Seoul to head up McDonald’s Korea.

“I’m thrilled to be returning to McDonald’s Australia,” said Martinez. “I stepped outside of the Australian market to gain valuable international experience and have watched with a great sense of homegrown pride the continued growth and innovation of the Australian business.

“I’m energised by this opportunity to push that trajectory and ensure Macca’s continues to do what it does best: feed and foster our communities.”

Martinez said providing opportunities for skills and career development remains an important focus for the business.

“Both Andrew and I are living proof of what’s possible at McDonald’s.”

This story originally appeared on Inside Franchise Business.