Pret A Manger has appointed former Taco Bell executive Anita McDonnell as its new president of international as the food-to-go chain looks to accelerate growth across its overseas markets.

McDonnell will take up the role in late August and lead Pret’s operations across Europe, Asia and Africa.

She will work alongside North America president Felipe Athayde and UK and Ireland president Ross Warnes to support the company’s growth strategy across its 21 international markets.

McDonnell joins from Taco Bell, where she most recently served as managing director for Asia Pacific and the Middle East. She previously held the position of chief growth officer for the region.

She has also held senior roles at Domino’s and Costa Coffee, building experience in franchise partnerships and multi-market operations across Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Europe.

McDonnell succeeds Eira Jarvis, who will leave Pret at the end of the year following 13 years with the business.

Jarvis has decided to remain in Asia rather than relocate to the UK, where the international president position will be based. She will continue in the role until the end of 2026 to support the transition.

Pret chief executive Pano Christou said: “We’re delighted to welcome Anita to Pret. She brings extensive global experience and a deep understanding of franchised businesses, with a strong track record of leading teams across multiple markets.

“It’s rare to find someone with such deep expertise in food, coffee and hospitality across such a wide range of Asian markets, and we are really lucky Anita has decided to join Pret.”

Christou also thanked Jarvis for helping to establish the foundations of Pret’s international business and supporting its teams and franchise partners.

Pret operates more than 750 shops and employs 12,500 people across 21 markets worldwide.

Sign up here to get the latest grocery and food news each morning