Mark King was appointed executive chairman and interim chief executive officer for Jack in the Box Inc. King succeeds Lance Tucker, the architect of JACK on Track initiative that aims to improve the company’s financial performance.
The news came on the same day that Jack in the Box announced its second quarter earnings for the reporting period ending April 12, 2026. The quick-service restaurant chain reported same-store sales decreased 3.8% in the second quarter. Franchised units experienced a 3.9% decline in same-store sales, while corporate units saw a decline of 2.8%. The chain both opened and closed nine restaurants during the second quarter.
“Jack in the Box is an iconic brand with a talented team and solid foundation. We are committed to executing on our ‘JACK on Track’ plan with discipline and at speed,” King said in a release announcing this transition. “We will continue to empower our franchisees to deliver a high-quality guest experience as we grow same-store sales, expand margins, and reduce debt.”
King has been a member of the Jack in the Box board since November 2025 and its chair since March. He previously served as CEO of Taco Bell Corp. King’s background also includes serving as CEO of Xponential Fitness.
Brand Snapshot: Jack in the Box
- Business type: Quick service restaurant chain
- Headquarters: San Diego
- Number of restaurants: 2,128 (as of May 2026)
