McDonald's Corp. has hired back a second former executive as it tries to stabilize its U.S. business. Karen King, retired east division president for McDonald's USA, returned to the company this week as its Chief People Officer for the U.S. Her arrival comes on the heels of the return of former executive Mike Andres, who once headed McDonald's central division in the U.S. Mr. Andres was hired in August to head McDonald's U.S. business, replacing Jeff Stratton, who had served in the role of McDonald's USA President for less than two years. McDonald's has been struggling in the U.S. as a complicated menu last year slowed service and as young customers have left in favor of fast casual chains. There have been several recent management changes at the company, including the retirement of chief operating officer Tim Fenton and the departure of the company's U.S. chief creative officer Marlena Peleo-Lazar. McDonald's has faced challenges around the globe, ranging from a supplier problem in China to store closures in Russia. McDonald's in August posted its weakest monthly sales results in more than a decade. Global same-store sales fell 3.7% in August, the sharpest decline since a drop of 4.7% in February 2003. In the Asia/Pacific, Middle East and Africa region, August sales at existing locations slid 14.5% as consumers continued to steer clear of the chain after Shanghai Husi Food Co., owned by U.S.-based OSI Group LLC, was accused by Chinese authorities of intentionally selling expired meat to McDonald's and other fast-food chains. Fixing problems in its home market is paramount, given its size. The U.S., which is home to more McDonald's restaurants than any other market, with more than 14,000, posted a 2.8% drop in same-store sales in August. McDonald's plans to report third-quarter earnings and September sales on Oct. 21. By JULIE JARGON