McDonald’s Canada Appoints Francesca Cardarelli as Chief Marketing Officer

McDonald’s Canada has announced that Francesca Cardarelli has been appointed as the chief marketing officer for McDonald’s Canada. An award-winning, leading innovator in the industry, Francesca has a proven track record of driving creative marketing and business strategies that have led to increased brand recognition and market share. As chief marketing officer, Francesca will oversee all marketing initiatives for the Canadian market, including brand, menu innovation, media and digital. 

Francesca joined McDonald’s Canada in 2021, bringing with her deep Consumer Packaged Goods and QSR experience from Starbucks, Jamieson Vitamins and PepsiCo Foods. Over the past four years, she has established herself as a transformational leader focused on shaping McDonald’s business for the future. Sitting on the Global Insights Leadership Team, she has become a trusted partner across her peers, working collaboratively with the global McDonald’s business to influence best practices with data and analytic-led strategic planning.   

Most recently, as senior director, strategy and insights, Francesca led the development of the new Strategy & Insights department, bringing together the Business Insights, Consumer Insights, Pricing, and Planning + Strategy functions. Under her leadership, this team has provided critical counsel as strategic business partners, informing key business decisions and positioning the company for future growth.  

Previously, Francesca led the Digital, Delivery and Marketing Planning team, launching the global digital loyalty program, MyMcDonald’s Rewards, making this platform a meaningful channel and sales driver. With her team, she also created the two-time Effie-Award winning Frequent Fryer Program.  

Prior to joining McDonald's, Francesca built a reputation for balancing innovation, breakthrough creative and agency transformations across her roles at Starbucks, Jamieson and PepsiCo. While at Starbucks, Francesca led the transition for media and creative agencies and launched oat milk and plant-based breakfast category expansions.  

She also sits on the board of Ronald McDonald House Charities Canada and is a member of Toronto Metropolitan University’s Marketing Management Advisory Council.   

"Francesca has been a transformative leader and mentor during her time at McDonald’s. She has a proven track record of driving strong business performance, creative excellence and meaningful change, while always putting our people and our guests at the heart of everything she does,” said Michèle Boudria, president and CEO, McDonald’s Canada. “I'm confident her leadership in this role will enable our business to drive our growth ambitions.”   

“Over my time at McDonald’s, I’ve seen firsthand how incredible this system and its people are, which is why I’m so honoured to have the opportunity to continue to build, shape and elevate this iconic brand,” said Francesca. “My passion is creating compelling stories and strategies that resonate with our diverse population here in Canada and I’m excited to lead an incredible Marketing team that will play a pivotal role in the brand’s continued growth into the future.”   

With this news, the company is congratulating Alyssa Buetikofer, who will be joining the McDonald’s USA team as chief marketing and digital customer experience officer.  

Alyssa joined McDonald’s Canada as chief marketing officer in 2021 following a decade in Chicago at McDonald’s Global Headquarters. Under Alyssa’s leadership in Canada, the brand expanded its menu with key launches such as the McCrispy, Chicken Big Mac and the relaunch of McWraps, as well as expanded beverage options such Fruit Splash and Cold Brew.  

Alyssa’s creative outlook and courageous approach resulted in some of the brand’s most beloved and award-winning campaigns including the Remix Menu Song, McHappy Day, The Grinch Meal and Hockey Showdown. 

Throughout, Alyssa has been an inspiring leader, a strategic partner and a supportive colleague. We are grateful for her many contributions and look forward to our continued partnership in her new role.