Gibbs to Retire as CEO of Yum Brands in 2026

Company - People | Mar 31, 2025 | EIN

Gibbs to Retire as CEO of Yum Brands in 2026

David Gibbs, after a long tenure of 36 years with Yum Brands, will be stepping down as CEO in early 2026. Gibbs has been an instrumental figure in Yum's growth, particularly during the pandemic, leading to increased digital sales and international expansion. Yum Brands leverages digital sales, and through strategic moves like creating a technology platform 'Byte by Yum' and collaborating with Nvidia for AI integration, Gibbs has positioned the company as a global leader. The company's portfolio expanded under his leadership with the acquisition of Habit Burger & Grill. However, while there has been growth, challenges persist in the U.S. for brands like Pizza Hut and KFC, which have seen closures. Meanwhile, Globally, KFC and Taco Bell have experienced significant growth under Gibbs's leadership. The search for Gibbs's successor will involve substantial planning to ensure continuation of the positive trajectory. Yum's board, along with its chairman, are set to oversee the transition process.

Sectors

  • Fast Food Industry
  • Technology Industry

Geography

  • United States – Yum Brands is based in Louisville, Kentucky, and oversees significant operations across the U.S. with brands like Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut.
  • Global – Yum Brands operates over 61,000 locations worldwide, with strong emphasis on global expansion, especially in KFC.

Industry

  • Fast Food Industry – Yum Brands operates major fast-food chains such as Taco Bell, KFC, and Pizza Hut.
  • Technology Industry – Yum Brands has integrated digital capabilities and AI into their business model, partnering with Nvidia.

Financials

    Participants

    NameRoleTypeDescription
    David GibbsCEOPeopleCurrent CEO of Yum Brands, retiring in early 2026.
    Yum BrandsTarget CompanyCompaniesAn American fast-food corporation, the owner of brands like Taco Bell, KFC, Pizza Hut, and Habit Burger & Grill.
    Brian CornellChairmanPeopleCEO of Target and Chairman of Yum Brands board.
    Habit Burger & GrillAcquired BrandCompaniesA fast-casual burger chain acquired by Yum Brands.
    NvidiaTechnology PartnerCompaniesPartnered with Yum Brands to implement AI in restaurants.