Former Papa Johns leader to head the parent of Carl’s Jr, Hardee’s
Max Wetzel becomes the new chief executive officer of CKE Restaurants. The parent of Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s announced the appointment of Wetzel, who will succeed Ned Lyerly.
“The entire CKE team has built an incredible business and accomplished so much over the last several years. I see massive opportunity to build on these accomplishments and accelerate growth of the Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s brands,” stated Mr. Wetzel.
Known in many restaurant industry circles, Wetzel brings a comprehensive set of skills as the CEO of CKE Restaurants: Carl’s Jr and Hardees. Previously, he served as chief operations officer of Papa Johns, in addition to holding the role of EVP and chief commercial officer.
A comprehensive profit- and growth-oriented leader, Wetzel’s well-rounded experience in franchising, restaurants and growing consumer brands, will be essential in the next stage of CKE’s expansion. He played a key role in the redesign of Papa Johns and its rebranding.
“We are excited to welcome Max to lead CKE. His proven record leading brands to realize their growth potential is ideally suited for Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s as the brands set forth on their next chapter,” said Sarah Spiegel, CKE Board member.
For more about the publisher of this restaurant news site, navigate here.