The Wendy’s Company announced today that it has named its latest top executive.
The restaurant brand’s board of directors has appointed Robert D. “Bob” Wright as Wendy’s president and chief executive officer. The move is effective May 21 with Wright also joining the board.
Wright most recently served as president and CEO, along with being a board member, of Potbelly Corporation. Prior, Wright held leadership positions at Wendy’s, including serving as executive vice president and chief operations officer.
Additional leadership positions Wright has served in include roles at Charleys Phlly Steaks, Checkers Drive-In Restaurants, Inc., and Domino’s Pizza, Inc.
Last July, former Wendy’s CEO president and CEO Kirk Tanner departed the company to become president and CEO of The Hershey Company. The Wendy’s board of directors appointed chief financial officer Ken Cook as interim CEO at the time. Following the appointment of Wright, Cook continues as Wendy’s CFO.
“Following a thorough and comprehensive search, the Board is confident that Bob is the right leader to guide Wendy’s into its next chapter, and we are excited to welcome him back to the Wendy’s team,” said Wendy’s Chairman of the Board, Art Winkleblack. “He is a proven operator and brand builder with deep industry expertise and a results-driven approach that aligns with our strategic priorities. Bob has strong support across our franchise community, and we look forward to partnering with him to further strengthen the business and drive long-term value for our customers, franchisees and shareholders.”
Founded in 1969 by Dave Thomas in Columbus, Ohio, Wendy’s and its franchisees operate more than 7,000 restaurants globally.
“I am honored and energized to return to Wendy’s at a pivotal moment for the brand,” Wright said. “Since Dave Thomas founded this company, a commitment to quality has been at the heart of how we serve customers and operate our restaurants. Wendy’s is an iconic brand with a strong foundation and significant opportunity ahead. I am focused on elevating the customer experience, advancing operational excellence, and strengthening the franchisee financial model to deliver sustainable, profitable growth. I believe the best days for Wendy’s are ahead.”
“On behalf of the board, I also want to thank Ken Cook for his leadership as interim CEO during this important period,” added Winkleblack. “Through his leadership, Wendy’s established the Project Fresh strategy to strengthen the foundation of the Company and begin the turnaround of this great brand. His steady hand and commitment to the business have been instrumental, and we look forward to his continued leadership as chief financial officer. I also want to recognize Suzie Thuerk, our chief accounting officer, for stepping into an expanded role during this transition, as well as our management team, employees and franchisees for staying focused on driving the business over the past several months.”
Earlier this month, Wendy’s reported that global first quarter 2026 sales fell 5.5% to $3.2 billion. In the United States, Wendy’s has more than 5,800 locations.
