Shake Shack Inc. (NYSE: SHAK), the popular American fast-casual restaurant chain known for its premium burgers, shakes, and fries, announced today that it has appointed Justin Mennen as its new Chief Information and Technology Officer (CITO), effective January 13, 2025. Mennen will report directly to Rob Lynch, the CEO of Shake Shack, and will be responsible for leading the Company’s technology efforts across all functions.
In his new role, Mennen will oversee all aspects of Shake Shack’s information technology (IT) strategy, including the development and execution of technology initiatives that enhance business operations and streamline processes. His leadership will be instrumental in improving Shake Shack’s technological capabilities and ensuring the brand stays at the forefront of innovation in the restaurant industry. Mennen’s appointment comes at a critical juncture in Shake Shack’s growth, as the company seeks to expand its digital footprint and enhance the overall guest experience.
Rob Lynch, CEO of Shake Shack, expressed confidence in Mennen’s ability to drive Shake Shack’s technological growth. “Justin brings a wealth of experience as a technology leader, and his track record of driving innovation across industries is incredibly impressive. We’re excited to have him join our team at this pivotal moment in our journey. We believe his deep expertise will be key in taking our operations to the next level, ultimately leading to a more seamless and elevated experience for our guests,” Lynch said in a statement.
As the CITO, Mennen will work closely with the executive team to align the company’s technology strategy with Shake Shack’s business goals. He will focus on enhancing internal processes, improving the digital infrastructure, and identifying opportunities to leverage technology in ways that can advance Shake Shack’s mission of delivering top-tier guest experiences. Mennen’s leadership will be essential in refining the company’s approach to innovation and ensuring that technology plays a central role in its continued success.
Shake Shack’s New Era Justin Mennen Appointed as Chief Information and Technology Officer
“I’m truly honored to join Shake Shack, a company that has set the standard for modern dining hospitality,” said Mennen. “The company’s commitment to delivering innovative, tech-forward solutions and exceptional guest experiences is inspiring, and I’m thrilled to contribute to Shake Shack’s continued growth and success. I look forward to working with the talented team here to advance our digital capabilities, drive innovation, and develop solutions that will help the company thrive in the years ahead.”
Mennen is a highly accomplished technology executive with over 25 years of experience leading technology initiatives in both the private and public sectors. He has developed a reputation for driving significant technological transformations, implementing large-scale systems, and enhancing cybersecurity in complex environments. His career has spanned various industries, with notable leadership positions in retail, consumer goods, and technology.
Before joining Shake Shack, Mennen served as Executive Vice President and Chief Digital and Technology Officer at Rite Aid Corporation, one of the leading drugstore chains in the United States. In his role at Rite Aid, Mennen led the digital and technology teams across the company’s 2,400 locations, spearheading initiatives to modernize the retailer’s IT systems and enhance its online platforms. He played a key role in streamlining operations, improving digital customer experiences, and driving the company’s technology agenda.
Prior to his tenure at Rite Aid, Mennen held senior leadership roles at several other major organizations, including Estée Lauder, Compucom, and Dell Technologies. At Estée Lauder, he was instrumental in driving innovation and improving business operations through technology. At Compucom, he led technology and digital transformation efforts, helping the company leverage technology to improve operational efficiency. Mennen’s extensive background in driving digital and technological change made him a standout candidate for the CITO role at Shake Shack.
Throughout his career, Mennen has gained a reputation for being a forward-thinking technology executive with a strong track record of delivering results. His expertise in cybersecurity, digital strategy, and large-scale system implementation has allowed him to successfully lead organizations through complex transformations. Mennen is also known for his ability to cultivate strong teams, foster a culture of collaboration, and drive operational improvements through the strategic use of technology.
Mennen’s appointment comes at a time when Shake Shack is making significant strides in its digital and technological capabilities. The company has been focused on enhancing its customer-facing technology, including mobile ordering and delivery platforms, as part of its strategy to expand its presence in the fast-growing digital space. As Shake Shack continues to grow, the role of technology in supporting its operations and improving guest experiences becomes more critical than ever. Mennen’s expertise will be pivotal in ensuring that Shake Shack’s technology infrastructure evolves to meet the needs of an increasingly tech-savvy customer base.
The appointment of Mennen also reflects Shake Shack’s ongoing commitment to innovation and its drive to stay at the cutting edge of industry trends. Technology is playing an increasingly important role in the restaurant industry, from streamlining operations to improving the customer experience. Mennen’s leadership will help Shake Shack navigate these changes and continue to build upon its reputation as a leader in the modern dining space.
In addition to his professional accomplishments, Mennen is passionate about mentoring the next generation of technology leaders and advocates for diversity and inclusion in the tech industry. He is committed to creating inclusive environments where all employees can thrive and believes in the power of technology to drive positive change in communities.
Mennen’s appointment also comes at a time when Shake Shack is expanding its footprint, with the company opening new locations across the U.S. and internationally. As the company grows, Mennen’s leadership in the technology space will be critical to ensuring that Shake Shack remains agile, adaptable, and positioned for continued success in the fast-casual dining market.
Shake Shack has made it clear that it values innovation, quality, and customer experience above all else. With Justin Mennen at the helm of its technology initiatives, the company is poised to continue pushing boundaries and delivering exceptional dining experiences for its guests. His leadership will play an instrumental role in driving the company’s technology strategy forward, helping Shake Shack remain a beloved brand known for its commitment to quality and innovation.
In conclusion, Shake Shack’s appointment of Justin Mennen as its Chief Information and Technology Officer marks an exciting new chapter for the company as it continues to evolve and grow. With Mennen’s extensive experience in technology strategy, digital transformation, and cybersecurity, Shake Shack is well-positioned to harness the power of technology to enhance its operations and deliver even more exceptional experiences for its guests. As Shake Shack enters a new phase of growth, Mennen’s leadership will be crucial in ensuring the company remains a leader in the fast-casual restaurant industry.
