Wendy’s Names Ken Cook as New Chief Financial Officer

The Wendy’s Company has announced the appointment of Ken Cook as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective December 2, 2024. Cook will report directly to President and Chief Executive Officer Kirk Tanner and join Wendy’s Senior Leadership Team. He succeeds Gunther Plosch, who has been the company’s CFO since 2016. Plosch will step down at the end of the year following a transition period with Cook.  

Cook joins Wendy’s with two decades of finance experience, most recently as Head of Financial Planning and Analysis at United Parcel Service (UPS). At UPS, he held various leadership positions, including CFO for the U.S. Domestic segment, where he managed financial planning for the company’s largest business unit. Additionally, he has experience in Investor Relations, Treasury, and more than three years as CFO of UPS’s South Asia operations.  

Wendy’s President and CEO Kirk Tanner said, "Driving operational performance and improving restaurant profitability are critical to our growth trajectory. 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 stated, "I am excited for the opportunity to lead the Finance organization of Wendy's as this iconic brand embarks on an accelerated growth journey. I look forward to working with the talented Wendy's system and franchise community to drive profitable growth for our restaurants, teams, and shareowners."  

Wendy’s plans to release its fourth-quarter and full-year 2024 financial results on February 13, 2025, and will host an Investor Day on March 5, 2025, to outline its strategies and financial outlook.