Deborah Wahl

Deborah Wahl brings 25 years of experience in the marketing industry to her role as Senior Vice President, Chief Marketing Officer of McDonald’s USA.
A member of the McDonald’s U.S. Leadership Team, Wahl plays an integral role in the development of the company’s growth strategies and overall brand positioning. Working with what McDonald’s calls the “three-legs of the stool” (company, operators and suppliers/agencies), Wahl and her team have led the brand through an extensive transformation, unlocking value by bringing customer-driven innovations like All Day Breakfast to life and making food the center of everything they do.
Deborah’s past experience includes the role of Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of PulteGroup, Chief Marketing Officer for Chrysler brands and various marketing leadership roles at Lexus, Toyota and Ford.
Wahl currently serves on the boards of the ANA, AAF, and AD Council.
Wahl earned a MBA from University of Pennsylvania’s Wharton School and a Master of International Studies from the Joseph H. Lauder Institute of International Studies. She also holds a Bachelor of Arts in Economics from Wellesley College. Known for her data and insights-driven approach and for using innovative tools and technology, in 2007, she was named by FORTUNE magazine as one of four women to watch in business.
A native of Michigan, Wahl now lives in the Chicago area with her son, Alexander.