Wendy’s taps industry veteran as its new CEO
A familiar face is returning to Wendy's — this time as its chief executive.
The struggling quick-serve restaurant giant has named Robert D. "Bob" Wright as president and CEO, effective May 21. Wright, who previously served in leadership roles at Wendy’s in three separate stints, succeeds Kirk Tanner, who left in July 2025 to lead the Hershey Company. (CFO Ken Cook has been serving as interim chief.)
Most recently, from July 2020 through December 2025, Wright was president and CEO of Potbelly Corp., where he led a period of meaningful growth, expanding the brand's footprint and developing one of the fastest-growing digital platforms in the restaurant industry, according to Wendy’s. He left the company at the end of 2025, following its acquisition by RaceTrac Inc. in a deal valued at $566 million.
Wright's prior experience includes multiple senior leadership roles at Wendy's. Most recently, from December 2013 to May 2019), he served as executive VP, chief operations officer. Wright also held leadership positions at Charleys Philly Steaks, Checkers Drive-In Restaurants and Domino's Pizza Inc.
“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 chairman 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."
As part of the transition, Ken Cook will continue in his role as CFO.
Wendy’s has struggled with ongoing sales declines in recent quarters. The chain recently reported its fifth straight quarter of same-store sales declines.
The company has been closing restaurants. Earlier this year, announced plans to close about 300 restaurants in the first half of the year in the first half of this year.
READ MORE: Wendy’s launches turnaround plan to drive growth, profitability
Wright’s appointment was announced on the heels of a report that activist Nelson Peltz’s Trian Fund Management was exploring investor backing for a potential bid to take the chain private.
In a statement, Wright said that he was “honored and energized to return to Wendy's at a pivotal moment for the brand.”
“Since Dave Thomas founded this company, a commitment to quality has been at the heart of how we serve customers and operate our restaurants," he said. "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."
Wendy's and its franchisees has more than 7,000 restaurants worldwide.
