Chipotle Mexican Grill has appointed Pakistani-origin executive and former KFC chief Sabir Sami to its board of directors, effective immediately.
The American fast-casual restaurant chain announced the appointment on Monday, September 14. Sami brings decades of experience managing consumer businesses and restaurant operations across international markets.
His appointment expands Chipotle’s board to 11 directors, including 10 independent members. It comes as the company pushes into new markets, including Asia.
“Sabir Sami brings more than 30 years of global consumer and restaurant industry experience, including 16 years at Yum! Brands Inc., he held a series of senior leadership roles across KFC, Taco Bell and Habit Burger & Grill,” Chipotle said in the statement quoted by Business Recorder.
From Karachi to global restaurant leadership
Sami holds an MBA from the University of Karachi. He served as KFC’s chief executive from January 2022 to February 2025.
He oversaw the brand’s global strategy and performance, reporting directly to the chief executive of parent company Yum! Brands.
Previously, Sami served as KFC’s chief operating officer and managing director of KFC Asia. He led global operations while overseeing Thailand, India, Central Asia and Greater Asia.
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His earlier responsibilities also covered KFC’s Middle East, North Africa, Pakistan and Turkey markets.
Before joining Yum! Brands in 2009, he held leadership positions at Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola and Reckitt Benckiser.
Chipotle’s announcement also identifies him as a director of Sami Advisory, the consulting firm he founded in August 2025. He additionally serves on Save the Children Canada’s board.
International experience takes centre stage
“I’m thrilled to join Chipotle’s Board at such an exciting time for the company,” Sami said.
“With an iconic brand and global fanfare, Chipotle has an immense opportunity to bring its craveable menu to more guests around the world. I look forward to helping the company realise its significant potential.”
Chipotle chairman Scott Maw highlighted Sami’s experience overseeing restaurant businesses across different markets.
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“Sabir brings deep restaurant operating expertise and a proven track record leading brands across international markets,” Maw said.
“That experience will be invaluable as we scale Chipotle with intention, strengthen our operations and expand access to our brand around the world.”
Appointment follows Asia debut
Chipotle had more than 4,200 restaurants as of June 30, 2026. Its footprint covered the United States, Canada, Britain, France, Germany and the Middle East.
The company says it uniquely owns and operates every restaurant in its US, Canadian and European network among chains its size.
On September 2, Chipotle announced its first Asian restaurant in Seoul, partnering with Sangmidang Holdings. It plans two further South Korean locations by year-end and its first Singapore restaurant in 2027.
