In the world of finance, Jack Hartung stands as an anomaly, deviating from the norm with a remarkable career spanning four decades. Having contributed his expertise to two major brands, McDonald's and Chipotle, Hartung's distinction becomes evident. Notably, at Chipotle, where he currently serves as one of the longest-tenured CFOs in the U.S., his commitment defies the prevailing trend of CFOs changing roles every four and a half years.
Hartung's formative years were grounded in a modest upbringing, instilling the values of hard work. Growing up in Hoffman Estates, Illinois, he found early inspiration in problem-solving through analytical puzzles in a biweekly magazine, courtesy of his mother. Drawn to math-oriented subjects in school, Hartung's older brother, in the accounting program at the University of Illinois at Champaign, guided him towards a career in accounting, eventually pursuing a Master's with a focus on finance.
Notably, his entry into public accounting exposed him to diverse tasks across various clients, providing a valuable foundation. However, Hartung's inclination towards working comprehensively for a single company led him to McDonald's, where he explored different roles, including franchise and real estate development in Europe and Latin America. His final role at McDonald's involved overseeing the CFO responsibilities for partner brands, introducing him to Chipotle.
Joining Chipotle, Hartung brought a wealth of experience, gratitude for his time at McDonald's, and a unique perspective gained from understanding the entire business model. His role as CFO extended beyond financial duties, involving a hands-on approach to comprehend and appreciate the intricacies of Chipotle's food. The founder, Steve Ells, imparted a commitment to detail, emphasizing the quality of each ingredient.
Chipotle's success, and consequently Hartung's role, exemplify the "Genius of the AND""—delivering both high-quality and affordable food without compromise. This philosophy, defying conventional expectations, enabled Chipotle to invest in its business without incurring debt, even during challenging periods like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hartung's enduring commitment to Chipotle reflects his attraction to endeavors he believes in. The company's purpose-driven approach, aiming to cultivate a better world through ethical sourcing and sustainable practices, aligns with his values. Beyond his role at Chipotle, Hartung serves on the boards of The Honest Company and Zocdoc, sharing his expertise to support companies with ambitious goals.
In navigating crises, such as the pandemic, he emphasizes taking the long game. Chipotle's resilient financial model and strategic decisions, coupled with the dedication of its team, allowed the company to weather challenges while staying true to its mission.
Additionally, Hartung's fulfilling career extends beyond the boardroom. His family holds a central place in his life, with five children and twelve grandchildren. Balancing his professional commitments, he dedicates time to serving on the boards of diverse companies, driven by a common goal- contributing to positive change in the world.
Hartung's journey is characterized by loyalty, vision, and a commitment to excellence, continues to influence Chipotle's success and serves as an example of the influence a CFO committed to a purpose-driven and sustainable future can have.
