Taco Bell Executive and Leadership Team

Michael Audette, the Chief Operating Officer at Taco Bell, manages the operational efficiency of nearly 7,000 domestic restaurants. Audette oversees supply chain logistics and ensures that every franchise organization adheres to the high standards required for serving 42 million customers weekly. By implementing streamlined kitchen processes, the Chief Operating Officer improves speed of service and consistency across the entire national footprint. This leadership role requires close collaboration with regional directors to maintain operational excellence and safety protocols. Michael Audette drives the integration of new mobile and delivery technologies into the daily restaurant workflow to enhance the customer experience. Through rigorous performance monitoring, the Chief Operating Officer identifies opportunities for cost reduction and productivity gains. Audette secures the long-term operational health of the brand by optimizing resource allocation and supporting the franchise network in achieving consistent growth targets.

Theresa Hurtado, the Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer at Taco Bell, coordinates strategic priorities and executive communications for the operations division. Hurtado facilitates alignment between the Chief Operating Officer and various department heads to ensure seamless execution of corporate initiatives. By managing complex projects and cross-functional workflows, the Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer optimizes the time and focus of the leadership team. This role involves synthesizing operational data to provide actionable insights for decision-making processes. Theresa Hurtado drives organizational efficiency by streamlining internal reporting structures and fostering clear communication channels across the enterprise. Through proactive management of high-priority tasks, the Chief of Staff To Chief Operating Officer supports the successful implementation of national restaurant strategies. Hurtado ensures that operational goals remain synchronized with the broader business objectives of the company, ultimately contributing to the overall stability and performance of the restaurant network.

Daniel Benson, the President at Taco Bell, leads the strategic direction and overall business performance of the organization. Benson oversees the executive team to ensure that all departments, from marketing to operations, remain aligned with the company's long-term growth objectives. By fostering a culture of innovation and accountability, the President drives the brand's commitment to being a top-tier quick-service restaurant leader. This leadership role involves engaging with the Board and key stakeholders to secure the resources necessary for scaling the business. Daniel Benson drives the development of new business models and service channels, including the expansion of digital and delivery platforms. Through rigorous financial oversight and performance management, the President ensures the company maintains its competitive edge. Benson secures the future of the brand by championing initiatives that enhance customer satisfaction, support franchise success, and promote the company's social impact through the Taco Bell Foundation.

Ken Basinger, the President at Taco Bell, focuses on the internal organizational development and the optimization of corporate infrastructure. Basinger oversees the integration of new technologies and administrative processes that support the company's massive scale. By refining internal governance and operational policies, the President drives efficiency across all corporate functions. This leadership role involves managing the company's relationship with its extensive network of franchise organizations to ensure mutual success and brand consistency. Ken Basinger drives the implementation of sustainability and educational programs, including the Live Ms Scholarship, to strengthen the brand's community impact. Through strategic planning and resource management, the President ensures that the organization remains agile and responsive to market shifts. Basinger secures the company's operational foundation by fostering a collaborative environment where cross-functional teams can execute complex projects effectively, ultimately supporting the brand's mission to provide innovative and accessible food choices.

Taylor Montgomery, the Chief Marketing Officer at Taco Bell, directs all domestic brand strategy and consumer engagement initiatives. Montgomery oversees the development of national advertising campaigns that highlight the unique, customizable menu items available across thousands of locations. By analyzing consumer trends and digital ordering behaviors, the Chief Marketing Officer ensures the brand remains relevant in a competitive quick-service landscape. This leadership role involves managing the Feed The Beat music program and various sports partnerships to deepen connections with core demographics. Taylor Montgomery drives the creative vision that sustains the company's market-leading position. Through constant evaluation of promotional effectiveness, the Chief Marketing Officer optimizes marketing spend to maximize customer acquisition. Montgomery maintains alignment with the broader corporate mission by fostering a culture of innovation and bold, craveable marketing that resonates with fans nationwide.

Andréa Beer, the Chief Marketing Officer (APAC) at Taco Bell, architects the brand's marketing strategy across the Asia-Pacific region. Beer oversees regional advertising campaigns and localizes menu messaging to capture diverse consumer preferences in emerging markets. By identifying unique cultural touchpoints, the Chief Marketing Officer (APAC) builds brand awareness and loyalty in a rapidly expanding geographic territory. This leadership role involves coordinating with local franchise partners to ensure consistent brand identity while allowing for necessary regional adaptations. Andréa Beer drives growth by leveraging digital platforms and social media to engage younger audiences in the APAC market. Through strategic market analysis, the Chief Marketing Officer (APAC) identifies new opportunities for expansion and competitive positioning. Beer ensures that all marketing efforts support the company's ambitious international growth goals, effectively translating the brand's core value proposition into successful, localized campaigns that resonate with international customers.

Amy Durini, the Chief Marketing Officer, International at Taco Bell, directs the global marketing strategy outside of the domestic market. Durini oversees the brand's entry into new countries and manages the rollout of international marketing programs designed to scale the company's footprint. By developing standardized yet adaptable brand guidelines, the Chief Marketing Officer, International ensures a cohesive global presence. This leadership role involves collaborating with international franchise organizations to drive sales and brand recognition in diverse regulatory and cultural environments. Amy Durini drives the implementation of global digital ordering initiatives to support the company's goal of adding 2,000 international restaurants. Through strategic oversight of global campaigns, the Chief Marketing Officer, International optimizes marketing investments to achieve sustainable growth. Durini maintains a focus on long-term brand equity, ensuring that the company's international expansion remains aligned with the overarching mission of delivering craveable, innovative food experiences to a global audience.