Chipotle president Jack Hartung joins Tesla's board ahead of Tesla Diner launch

Core Insights - Tesla has appointed Jack Hartung, a veteran executive from Chipotle, to its board of directors, which coincides with the company's development of a retro diner and charging station in Los Angeles [1][3]. Group 1: Appointment Details - Jack Hartung brings over 20 years of experience from Chipotle, where he held roles such as CFO, president, and chief strategy officer, overseeing finance, supply chain, and safety as the company expanded to over 3,700 restaurants globally [2]. - Prior to his tenure at Chipotle, Hartung spent nearly 20 years at McDonald's, serving as VP and CFO of the partner brands group [2]. Group 2: Strategic Implications - Hartung's experience in the food and beverage industry may provide Tesla with valuable strategic insights and a network of contacts as the company prepares to launch its diner concept [3][4]. - His appointment comes as Tesla seeks to enhance customer service at the diner, with a role advertised for a Tesla Diner Experience Specialist [3]. Group 3: Compensation and Governance - Hartung will begin his board duties, including participation in the audit committee, effective June 1, and has waived cash and equity compensation, aligning with practices of other board members [5]. - A related-party transaction was disclosed, noting that Hartung's son-in-law has been a Tesla service technician since December 2016, earning a salary of $124,000, which Tesla states is consistent with its compensation practices [4].