Jack in the Box Inc. (NASDAQ: JACK) announced that its board of directors has appointed Mark King as executive chairman and interim chief executive officer, effective immediately. King, who has served as a board member since November 2025 and board chair since March 2026, succeeds Lance Tucker in the role.

The San Diego-based restaurant company also appointed Alan Smolinisky, a board member since November 2025, as lead independent director.

King brings over four decades of experience at major global brands to his new position. He previously served as CEO of Taco Bell Corp., where he led franchise operations during a growth period, and also served as CEO of Xponential Fitness.

"I am pleased to serve as Interim CEO of Jack in the Box as we work with urgency to improve operating results and enhance shareholder value," King stated. "We are committed to executing on our 'JACK on Track' plan with discipline and at speed."

Smolinisky commented that King's restaurant and retail industry expertise positions him to advance the company's strategic initiatives while the board conducts a search for the next permanent CEO.

Tucker, the outgoing CEO, said it had been a privilege to lead Jack in the Box alongside the company's team and franchisees.

Jack in the Box operates and franchises 2,128 restaurants across 24 states. The company also announced its second quarter fiscal 2026 earnings results in a separate release, with King and CFO Dawn Hooper scheduled to host a webcast to review the results.

The leadership transition comes as the company continues to implement its "JACK on Track" strategic plan, which focuses on growing same-store sales, expanding margins, and reducing debt.