McDonald’s has paid its chief executive, Jim Skinner, a bonus of $8.8m (£4.5m) for boosting business over the past three years.

Skinner, who took the helm in 2004, was rewarded for revitalising the fast-food giant chain after implementing an aggressive turnaround strategy. 

This included the addition of healthy options such as salads and sandwiches to McDonald’s menu as well as promoting breakfasts and extending restaurant hours.

McDonald’s said that Skinner will receive $3.5m (£1.8m) as a bonus for 2006 and a $5.3m (£2.7m) payout for the period of 2004 through to 2006 in addition to his regular salary.

Last month, McDonald’s reported a net profit of $3.5b (£1.8b) for 2006, marking a 36% increase compared with the previous year’s figures.

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By Jessica Harvey

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