Wendy’s announced the appointment of former UPS head of financial planning and analysis of the U.S. division, Ken Cook, as the Dublin, Ohio-based company’s new CFO. Cook will succeed outgoing chief financial officer, Gunther Plosch, who has been in the role since 2016, and will be departing at the end of the year.
"Driving operational performance and improving restaurant profitability are critical to our growth trajectory," Wendy’s president and CEO Kirk Tanner said in a statement. "Ken will play a key role across our initiatives to increase revenue and expand margins as we enter the next phase of growth in the U.S. and around the globe, helping to unlock value for our shareholders. I want to thank GP for his work to improve our system's financial foundations and processes that have created a stronger organization and positioned us to build momentum."
Cook spent his 20-year career in various roles at UPS, including CFO, where he led the financial planning and execution for the company's business unit. He also held roles in investor relations and treasury, along with more than three years as the CFO of the UPS South Asia division.
"I am excited for the opportunity to lead the Finance organization of Wendy's as this iconic brand embarks on an accelerated growth journey," said Ken Cook. "I look forward to working with the talented Wendy's system and franchise community to drive profitable growth for our restaurants, teams, and shareowners."
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