Big change at McDonald’s South Africa

Oliva will replace outgoing CEO Greg Solomon, who has been in the position since 2009.

Solomon joined McDonald’s in 1996 as a Project Manager in the construction department and was appointed Managing Director of McDonald’s South Africa on 1 January 2009.

The group announced in February that Solomon would be stepping down from the position after 29 years.

“Leadership changes are natural for any organisation, and while Greg has built a strong foundation, now is the time to welcome new leadership,” it said.

Under Solomon’s leadership, McDonald’s expanded significanty in the country, adding 230 restaurants to take the total portfolio to 400 locations.

Incoming boss, Oliva, is a decorated retail executive who has 30 years of experience in the sector serving in leadership positions at SPAR South Africa.

McDonald’s said his appointment will bring three decades of experience in retail and supply chain management, with the chops to build teams and deliver growth.

He began his career in 1995, progressing through senior supply chain and logistics roles before gaining international exposure in Ireland as Supply Chain Executive at BWG Foods.

Upon returning to South Africa, he led regional and national operations, most recently serving as CEO of one of the country’s largest retail networks.

“He was selected following a rigorous executive search process aimed at identifying a leader with the vision, discipline, and commercial acumen to guide the business into its next phase of transformation,” the group said.

It added that the new appointment comes as McDonald’s South Africa begins a new chapter amid the rapid changes in the country’s consumer landscape.

“Oliva’s leadership is expected to accelerate innovation, enhance guest experiences, and further strengthen McDonald’s market position,” it said.

The new CEO holds an MBA from the University of Wales, Cardiff, and a Bachelor of Technology from Durban University of Technology.

He completed executive leadership development at University of Stellenbosch Business School, and also holds a Certificate in Logistics Management from the former Rand Afrikaans University (RAU).

McDonald’s said that Solomon will still remain involved with the brand as a board member, “ensuring continuity, sharing his invaluable knowledge, and fulfilling his responsibilities as a company director”.

Issued on BusinessTech by Staff Writer | https://businesstech.co.za/news/business/826906/big-change-at-mcdonalds-south-africa/