McDonald’s has named Das Dasgupta as its Global Chief Data, Analytics & AI Officer, a newly elevated position that reflects the company’s accelerating push to embed advanced analytics and artificial intelligence across its global operations. The appointment underscores McDonald’s ambition to move beyond experiments and scale digital transformation that delivers real business impact.
A Seasoned Technology Leader
Dasgupta brings more than 25 years of leadership in data, AI, and analytics. Most recently, he served as Chief Data & Analytics Officer at Starbucks, where he advanced the company’s use of data to personalize customer experiences and drive digital growth. His career also spans senior roles at Amazon and Viacom, providing him with deep expertise at the intersection of consumer industries and cutting-edge technology.
In addition to his corporate achievements, Dasgupta is an adjunct professor at the University of Southern California’s Marshall School of Business. He also holds a PhD from Pennsylvania State University, a background that equips him with both academic rigor and practical leadership skills.
Building “Moneyball” Teams and Early Wins
In announcing his new role, Dasgupta emphasized his plan to start with small, high-impact initiatives. He described the formation of “Moneyball teams”—specialized groups designed to deliver quick, measurable improvements in both restaurant operations and McDonald’s mobile app.
The strategy is not only about speed but also about building credibility. By achieving early wins, McDonald’s can demonstrate the value of AI to employees, franchisees, and customers, creating momentum for larger-scale transformation. At the same time, Dasgupta intends to establish a robust AI foundation to ensure innovations are scalable and sustainable.
Accelerating McDonald’s Tech Transformation
The appointment comes during a period of renewed focus on technology at McDonald’s. Earlier this year, the company restructured its U.S. technology leadership, including key CIO positions, to strengthen its digital strategy.
Already, McDonald’s has begun exploring AI-powered solutions such as predictive maintenance to help managers anticipate equipment failures, reduce downtime, and improve consistency. These applications highlight how data and AI can reduce costs, enhance food quality, and improve both customer and crew experiences.
CEO Chris Kempczinski has repeatedly stressed that AI and connected technologies are essential to the company’s future growth. Dasgupta’s appointment signals a clear move to convert that vision into tangible progress.
The Road Ahead
One of Dasgupta’s first tasks will be enhancing data infrastructure across McDonald’s vast global footprint. A strong backbone is needed to support the demands of modern AI, from machine learning models to real-time analytics.
Equally important will be prioritizing AI use cases that deliver visible results. Rather than spreading resources thin, McDonald’s is expected to target projects that improve restaurant performance, elevate the digital customer journey, and strengthen operational efficiency.
Dasgupta will also focus on talent and culture, embedding a data-driven mindset across teams worldwide. Building cross-functional collaboration and equipping staff with new skills will be critical to scaling AI successfully.
Finally, the company must ensure that its AI strategy aligns with responsible governance and ethics. Issues such as data privacy, fairness, and regulatory compliance are essential for maintaining customer trust and brand reputation.
By appointing Das Dasgupta as its Global Chief Data, Analytics & AI Officer, McDonald’s is signaling a decisive step toward becoming a data-driven enterprise. With his unique blend of academic expertise and corporate leadership, Dasgupta is positioned to help McDonald’s harness AI not just to streamline operations but also to reimagine the customer experience—ensuring the Golden Arches remain relevant in a rapidly evolving digital era.
