Chipotle Mexican Grill appointed Scott Boatwright as chief executive officer and a member of the board, effective immediately, on Monday, ending the monthslong search for a new leader after former CEO Brian Niccol left for Starbucks.

(Reuters) -Chipotle Mexican Grill on Monday named interim boss Scott Boatwright as permanent CEO of the burrito chain, months after Brian Niccol exited the role to take the top job at Starbucks. Boatwright steps in at a time when restaurants across the United States are battling weak consumer demand in the face of higher menu prices.

The operations specialist was named interim chief executive in August, replacing Brian Niccol at the fast-casual chain after his departure

Chipotle Mexican Grill has dropped “interim” from chief executive officer Scott Boatwright’s title, today announcing that after a “robust and thorough process,” he will take over the top spot, as well as a position on the board, effective immediately.