CKE Restaurants appoints Joe Guith as new CEO

USA – CKE Restaurants, owner of the Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s brands, has tapped Joe Guith as its new chief executive officer, ushering in a fresh era of leadership for the fast-food group.

Effective 7 March 2025, Joe Guith will assume his new leadership role at CKE Restaurants Holdings, marking a pivotal step in the company’s strategy for global growth.

Guith, who brings over 20 years of experience in franchising, restaurant management, and the growth of consumer brands, is expected to drive further expansion and strengthen the company’s market presence.

Previously, he served as CEO of Church’s Texas Chicken, where he successfully repositioned the brand, enhanced franchisee relationships, and achieved record sales and traffic growth while expanding the chain to 1,500 locations across 23 countries.

His extensive background also includes senior leadership roles at GoTo Foods (formerly Focus Brands), McAlister’s Deli, Cinnabon, and The Coca-Cola Company.

In a statement, CKE board member and interim CEO Sarah Spiegel indicated that Guith’s appointment brings a blend of industry expertise and visionary leadership that aligns perfectly with the company’s ambitions for Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s.

She expressed confidence that his proven track record in brand growth and operational excellence will propel the company to new heights of success and innovation.

Meanwhile, the company continues to enhance its leadership team.

In June 2024, CKE Restaurants appointed Justin Falciola as Chief Technology and Growth Officer to accelerate its digital expansion and elevate guest experiences.

Falciola, who joined from Papa John’s International where he served as Chief Insights and Technology Officer since 2018, is expected to bring fresh perspectives to the company’s technological initiatives.

Earlier in March 2024, CKE Restaurants launched its first Carl’s Jr. outlet in Doral, Florida, located at 5755 NW 87th Ave, in a strategic partnership with RSMG Holding.

The new 2,500ft² location, which can accommodate 42 guests, exemplifies the company’s commitment to expanding its footprint.

CKE Restaurants Holdings, based in Franklin, Tennessee, operates the iconic brands Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s, with a combined network of more than 3,600 franchised or company-operated restaurants in the U.S. and presence in over 35 international markets and U.S. territories.

These strategic leadership changes underline the company’s dedication to innovation and global expansion.

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