Shake Shack CFO Katie Fogertey is stepping down

Shake Shack reiterated guidance for the year, projecting a low single-digit increase in same-store sales. | Photo: Shutterstock

Shake Shack is launching the hunt for a new CFO.

The fast-casual burger chain said Tuesday that Chief Financial Officer Katie Fogertey plans to step down on March 4, 2026. Beginning immediately, however, Fogertey will move to a senior advisor role to support the transition as the company looks for a replacement.

In the meantime, Shake Shack is creating an Office of the CFO with a tenured team to provide stability and uninterrupted support, the company said.

Fogertey, who did not give a reason for her departure, joined Shack Shack in 2021 after spending about 16 years with investment firm Goldman Sachs.

“Katie has made a meaningful and positive impact on Shake Shack, helping us navigate pivotal moments of growth and transition,” said Rob Lynch, Shake Shack’s CEO, in a statement. “We are grateful for her significant contributions to the strategic and financial growth of our company and wish her continued success in all that comes next.

“We also have full confidence in the experienced team of leaders who will guide the newly established Office of the CFO in the interim as we begin our search for our next CFO,” Lynch added.

Shake Shack also reiterated its fourth-quarter guidance, saying same-store sales are expected to be up in low single digits for the quarter and also for the full year.

The New York City-based chain had segment-defying results in the third quarter. It was one of few fast-casual chains to boast an increase in same-store sales of 4.9%, including positive traffic of 1.3%, despite headwinds in the broader economy that have dampened sales across the industry.

With about 630 units globally, Shake Shack is accelerating growth, pushing toward 1,500 company restaurants domestically. This year, the chain expects to open between 45 to 50 company and 35 to 40 licensed locations. Next year, that projection will grow to between 55 to 60 company, and 40-45 licensed units.

Forgertey said she will continue to cheer on the brand.

“I am incredibly proud of all that we have achieved together during my time as CFO, including doubling our footprint and implementing meaningful improvements to our business model,” she said in a statement. “We have built a solid foundation that will help power Shake Shack’s robust growth opportunity for many years to come.”

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