In a significant leadership shift within the food and beverage industry, Wendy’s CEO Kirk Tanner is set to depart the fast-food chain on July 18, 2025, to assume the role of President and CEO at The Hershey Company, effective August 18. Tanner’s transition comes less than two years after he took the helm at Wendy’s in February 2024, following a distinguished 30-year tenure at PepsiCo.
Tanner’s move to Hershey coincides with the planned retirement of Michele Buck, who has led the chocolate and snack giant since 2017. Buck will remain with Hershey in a senior advisory capacity to facilitate a smooth leadership transition. During her tenure, Buck oversaw significant growth and diversification, including strategic acquisitions and the expansion into salty snacks.
At Wendy’s, Tanner implemented several initiatives aimed at revitalizing the brand and enhancing customer engagement. These included innovative marketing collaborations, such as limited-time menu items featuring Takis chips and SpongeBob SquarePants-themed meals, as well as technological advancements like AI-enabled voice-ordering systems at drive-throughs. Despite these efforts, Wendy’s faced challenges, reporting a decline in same-store sales and a 31% drop in stock value amid broader economic pressures.
Ken Cook, Wendy’s Chief Financial Officer since December 2024, will serve as interim CEO while the company conducts a search for a permanent successor. Cook brings over two decades of financial leadership experience, including key roles at United Parcel Service. Wendy’s has expressed confidence in Cook’s ability to maintain strategic continuity during this transitional period.
Tanner’s appointment at Hershey is seen as a strategic move to leverage his extensive experience in the consumer-packaged goods sector. His leadership is expected to guide Hershey through current challenges, including rising cocoa prices and shifting consumer preferences. Tanner has expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, describing it as a “once-in-a-lifetime” chance to lead a company with a portfolio of beloved brands.
The leadership changes at both Wendy’s and Hershey underscore the dynamic nature of the food industry, where companies must continually adapt to evolving market conditions and consumer behaviors. As Tanner prepares to take the reins at Hershey, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how his vision and experience shape the company’s future trajectory.
