DENVER — Curt Garner will join Chipotle Mexican Grill in the newly created role of chief information officer, effective Nov. 23. Most recently, Mr. Garner held the same position at Starbucks Coffee Corp.
During his 18 years at Starbucks, Mr. Garner worked on Starbucks’ technology infrastructure when the company had fewer than 2,000 stores and continued through its development to support a global business. Prior to joining Starbucks, Mr. Garner held a technology leadership position at Wendy’s International, Inc. He has a bachelor’s degree in economics from The Ohio State University.
“As we look for ways to create efficiencies in our restaurants and improve the customer experience through the strategic use of technology, Curt’s experience and expertise make him an ideal and welcome addition to our management team,” said Steve Ells, founder, chairman and co-chief executive officer of Chipotle.
In his new role, Mr. Garner will report to Jack Hartung, chief financial officer at Chipotle.
“I am thrilled to join such a dynamic organization at a time when investments in technology infrastructure can help the company create a technology platform that is on par with the leadership they have already established in terms of their food culture, people culture, and unit economic model,” Mr. Garner said.
