Max Wetzel has been named CEO of CKE Restaurant Holdings, the parent company of quick service chains Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, the company based in Franklin, Tenn., announced Friday. He replaces Ned Lyerly.
Wetzel previously was chief operating officer of Papa John’s International.
“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,” Wetzel said in the release announcing his appointment.
CKE board member Sarah Spiegel praised Wetzel for his track record.
“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,” Spiegel said.
CKE is a privately held company that operates and franchises more than 3,800 restaurants globally under its two brands.
Contact Bret Thorn at [email protected]