CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, named two new executives to its leadership team: Charles Jemley joins as chief financial officer, and Kerry Olson joins as chief legal officer and general counsel, the Franklin, Tenn.-based company said Monday.
These hires are part of the CKE’s push to accelerate growth domestically and abroad, according to a news release from the company.
“I am proud to add two distinguished leaders to our team and am excited to welcome Charles and Kerry to CKE,” CEO Jason Marker said in a news release. “Both bring valuable food industry experience that will help guide the growth and evolution of our company and brands.”
Jemley joins CKE from Starbucks Coffee Company where he held a number of senior positions. Most recently he was the senior vice president, finance, for Starbucks Roastery and Reserve. Before joining Starbucks, he spent 15 years at Yum! Brands Inc. in finance and development roles including CFO for the high-growth China Division based in Shanghai. In his new role, he will oversee CKE’s global financial operations.
“Charles brings extensive financial, operational, and strategic experience to CKE,” Marker said. “Combined with a deep knowledge of the QSR industry, he will be instrumental as we enter our next phase of growth and expand the footprint of our brands.”
Olson joins CKE from Faegre Baker Daniels LLP, where she was a partner at the international law firm. Previously, she served as assistant general counsel for Buffalo Wild Wings and International Dairy Queen. In her new role as chief legal officer and general counsel, she will lead global legal strategy and oversee day-to-day operations of the CKE legal department.
“We are pleased to have a distinguished law professional of Kerry’s caliber join the CKE leadership team to help guide our continued global growth,” said Marker. “With both traditional and specialized legal experience, I look forward to seeing what new perspectives she will bring as a key leader in our company.”
Currently, there are 3,800 franchised or company-operated Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s restaurants in 44 states and 43 foreign countries and U.S. territories.
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