Manuel J.M. Steijaert is the President of International Operated Markets (IOM) at McDonald's Corporation, a role he assumed in 2020. In this capacity, he leads operations across a dynamic portfolio of markets including the UK, France, the Netherlands, Belgium, Austria, Switzerland, and others in Europe and Latin America. Steijaert drives strategic growth, digital acceleration, and customer experience enhancements, ensuring McDonald's remains a market leader through innovation, operational excellence, and franchisee partnerships. Steijaert joined McDonald's in 2011 as Vice President of Finance for the Northern Europe division, rapidly advancing to Chief Financial Officer for UK & Ireland in 2014 and President of McDonald's UK & Ireland in 2016. During his tenure in the UK, he oversaw significant expansions, including the rollout of 24-hour drive-thrus, the introduction of McDonald's first fully automated restaurant, and robust digital sales growth exceeding 50% year-over-year. Prior to McDonald's, Steijaert built a 12-year career at Procter & Gamble, holding senior finance roles across Europe and Asia, where he developed expertise in consumer insights, supply chain optimization, and global P&L management. A Belgian native with a Master's degree in Applied Economics from KU Leuven, Steijaert is renowned for his data-driven leadership and commitment to sustainability. His achievements have consistently delivered double-digit comparable sales growth in his markets, while advancing McDonald's ESG goals, such as reducing emissions and promoting regenerative agriculture.