Annemarie Swijtink is President & Chief Executive Officer of McDonald’s Restaurants of Canada, where she is responsible for business operations across more than 1,450 restaurants from coast-to-coast.
With nearly three decades of experience in the McDonald’s System, Annemarie brings a global perspective and a passion for deep collaboration across McDonald’s three-legged stool – its employees, franchisees and suppliers. She is committed to harnessing the full strength of the Canadian System to drive business results, while staying true to McDonald’s purpose of feeding and fostering communities.
Annemarie began her McDonald’s journey in high school as a Crew member in the Netherlands, followed by an internship with the marketing team while studying Economics at Erasmus University in Rotterdam. After joining the McDonald’s Netherlands headquarters in 2006, she held roles of increasing responsibility across marketing, digital and data analytics.
In 2018, Annemarie was appointed to lead the international data and insights team for the International Operated Markets Business Unit, spanning multiple countries across Europe. In this role, she built a reputation for translating consumer insights into business growth and helping markets unlock new opportunities through data-driven decision-making.
Before leading the Canadian business, Annemarie served as Chief Marketing Officer and later Managing Director of McDonald’s Netherlands. Leading in a highly competitive environment, she was pivotal in strengthening the brand’s market position and delivering strong results. During this time, she spearheaded the market’s digital transformation, launching innovative loyalty programs and enhancing mobile engagement in the app, which contributed to significant market share growth.
Annemarie is a purpose-driven leader with a profound commitment to community engagement, inclusion and social impact. She believes that leadership extends beyond business results – it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of others – and strives to be a strong role model for future leaders, including her daughters. At McDonald’s, Annemarie is dedicated to developing talent and fostering a culture of belonging where everyone can thrive. Her goal is to leave a legacy of leadership that lifts others and opens doors for the next generation of leaders.
A passionate champion for Ronald McDonald House, Annemarie has served as a dedicated board member, fundraiser, and advocate in support of families with sick and injured children. She currently sits on the board of Ronald McDonald House Canada, helping advance its mission of surrounding families across Canada with the care, support and resources they need to be active participants in their child's medical journey.
Based in Toronto with her husband and two daughters, Annemarie enjoys exploring Canada’s vibrant culture and communities with her family. She is an avid runner who combines her love of sport with purpose, having supported Ronald McDonald House through her annual participation in the Netherland’s 24-hour team fundraising marathon covering 240 kilometres.
