Senior Manager, Strategy & Planning - Strategic Communications

Company Description

McDonald’s growth strategy, Accelerating the Arches, encompasses all aspects of our business as the leading global omni-channel restaurant brand. As the consumer landscape shifts we are using our competitive advantages to further strengthen our brand. One of our core growth strategies is to Double Down on the 3Ds (Delivery, Digital and Drive Thru). McDonald’s will accelerate technology innovation so 65M+ customers a day will experience a fast, easy experience, whether at one of our 25,000 and growing Drive thrus, through McDelivery, dine-in or takeaway. 

McDonald’s Global Technology is here to power tomorrow’s feel-good moments.That’s why you’ll find us at the forefront of transformative technology, exploring new and innovative ways to serve our millions of customers and spread happiness one delicious Hot Fudge Sundae-dipped fry at a time. Using AI, robotics and emerging tech, we’re digitizing the Golden Arches. Combine that with our unparalleled global scale, and we’re reshaping all areas of the business, industry and every community that is home to a McDonald’s restaurant. We face complex tech challenges every day. But that’s where our diverse and talented teams come in. They’re made up of the best and brightest from all over the globe, and they thrive in the space where feel-good meets fast-paced.  

Check out the McDonald’s  Global Technology Technical Blog to learn how technology and our global team are directly enabling the Accelerating the Arches strategy. 

Job Description

The Senior Manager, Strategy & Planning - Strategic Communications is a pivotal role within the US Technology Restaurant Platform Team, responsible for developing and executing communication strategies that align with McDonald’s vision for transformational initiatives. This role requires a resilient and adaptable leader with exceptional emotional intelligence who can inspire action, build relationships, and navigate the complexities of large-scale transformation projects.

As a results-oriented communicator, this individual will craft compelling narratives, foster advocacy among stakeholders, and ensure clarity and alignment across the organization. They will serve as an influencer and persuader, bridging the gap between technical teams, business leaders, and owner/operators to drive successful outcomes.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Vision Alignment

• Provide strategic direction for communication efforts, ensuring alignment with McDonald’s vision and long-term goals.
• Lead with resilience and emotional intelligence, maintaining focus and fostering confidence in high-pressure situations.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leaders, providing insights and strategies to achieve transformational objectives.

Communication & Stakeholder Engagement

• Craft and execute comprehensive communication strategies that drive alignment and advocacy among internal and external stakeholders, including owner/operators.
• Develop compelling narratives, messaging, and storytelling that reinforce the “why” behind transformation initiatives.
• Manage organizational rhythms, including leadership meetings, engagement calendars, and strategic updates, ensuring transparency and consistency.
• Build relationships with cross-functional teams to influence stakeholders and address unique communication needs.

Strategic Communication Execution

• Partner with initiative teams and cross-functional business partners to lead the development and execution of an end-to-end communication plan.
• Create communication collateral to effectively prepare stakeholders for the deployment of Restaurant Platform initiatives.
• Conduct impact assessments and develop stakeholder engagement plans to advocate for and support transformation initiatives.

Change Management Expertise

• Apply change management best practices to ensure smooth adoption of transformation initiatives.
• Identify and address barriers to change, fostering stakeholder confidence and reducing resistance.
• Act as a change agent, promoting understanding and alignment across all levels of the organization.

Orchestration & Alignment

• Create and execute an integrated orchestration strategy for the Restaurant Platform, building excitement and reducing friction across stakeholders and audiences.
• Ensure successful operator engagement across key initiatives by guiding teams on best practices for cohesion and objective achievement.
• Adapt to evolving program needs, demonstrating flexibility while maintaining focus on long-term goals.

Benefits eligible: Yes
Bonus eligible: Yes