Wendy’s CEO Kirk Tanner Poised to Take Helm at Hershey Amid Leadership Transition

In a significant corporate leadership shift, Wendy’s CEO Kirk Tanner is set to transition to The Hershey Company as its new chief executive, with his appointment effective August 18, 2025. This move marks a notable return for Tanner to the consumer packaged goods sector, following his tenure at the fast-food chain and a long career at PepsiCo.

Tanner will succeed Michele Buck, who is retiring after nearly two decades with Hershey, including almost eight years as CEO. Buck, who initially announced her retirement plans earlier this year, will remain an advisor to the company until the end of 2025 to ensure a smooth transition.

As Tanner prepares to step down from Wendy’s on July 18, 2025, the fast-food giant has named its Chief Financial Officer, Ken Cook, as interim CEO. Cook, who joined Wendy’s in 2024 and previously held senior roles at UPS, will lead the company while its board initiates a search for a permanent replacement for Tanner.

Mary Kay Haben, director and chair of Hershey’s CEO search committee, lauded Tanner as a “proven, high-impact leader” with extensive experience in the food and beverage industry, citing his background in snacks, beverages, M&A, and innovation as key assets for leading Hershey into its next phase.

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