With Internal Talent, Wendy’s Fills 2 President Roles

Kirk Tanner, president and CEO of Wendy’s since Feb. 5, says dedicated U.S. and international presidents may help the chain accelerate new restaurant development, among other growth objectives.

“I believe having one leader with clear accountability for development and operational performance in both the U.S. and international businesses, along with a singular voice to those respective franchise systems, will be a catalyst to accelerating growth and performance,” states Tanner in a May 23 release announcing the fresh appointments.

Taking on the newly created role in the U.S. is Abigail Pringle, while E.J. Wunsch becomes president, international; both appointments are effective June 17.

Pringle, who joined Wendy’s in 2002, has served as president, international and chief development officer since 2019, and in numerous leadership roles across development, operations and strategic initiatives. In her new role, she will direct all aspects of the Wendy’s U.S. business, which includes over 6,000 company-operated and franchised restaurants.

Wunsch has served as chief legal officer since joining the company in 2016. He has played a role in various international initiatives across Australia, Asia, Europe and South America. Prior to Wendy’s, Wunsch oversaw an international legal portfolio with The Procter & Gamble Co., including four years stationed in Singapore with responsibility throughout Asia. As president, U.S., Wunsch will assume accountability for the Wendy’s International business across 33 countries and U.S. territories.

Separately, on May 22, The Wendy’s Co. announced progress in doubling its restaurant footprint in Quebec, Canada, in 2024. By 2030, the company aims to have 50 restaurants across the province. All franchisees operating in Quebec have committed to opening new restaurants by 2025, with 12 units set to open over the next 18 months.

Currently, Wendy’s has a global footprint of more than 7,000 restaurants in 33 countries and territories across the U.S., Canada, Latin America and Caribbean, Middle East, Asia-Pacific and Europe.