US-based CKE Restaurants, the parent company of Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s restaurants, has appointed Joe Guith as its new CEO.
Guith’s appointment is effective from 7 March 2025 He brings to the role his experience in franchising, restaurant management and the growth of consumer brands.
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Guith, who has more than 20 years of industry experience, previously served as CEO of Church’s Texas Chicken, repositioning the brand and strengthening franchisee relationships. He drove record sales and traffic growth, and improved unit-level profitability, expanding the brand to 1,500 locations across 23 countries.
He has also held senior leadership roles at GoTo Foods (formerly Focus Brands), McAlister’s Deli, Cinnabon and The Coca-Cola Company.
Guith said: “I am honoured to join such a respected and iconic company. Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s have a rich history of delivering craveable flavours and exceptional service, and I am eager to work with the talented team and franchisees to build on this legacy.”
CKE board member and interim CEO Sarah Spiegel added: “Joe brings a blend of industry expertise and visionary leadership that perfectly aligns with our goals for Carl’s Jr and Hardee’s. We are confident that his proven track record in brand growth and operational excellence will drive our company forward, allowing us to reach new levels of success and innovation.”
CKE Restaurants Holdings is a privately held company based in Franklin, Tennessee.
In June 2024, it appointed Justin Falciola as its chief technology and growth officer to accelerate digital expansion and enhance guest experience.
Falciola joined from Papa John’s International, where he served as chief insights and technology officer since 2018.
In March 2024, CKE Restaurants launched its first Carl’s Jr in Doral, Florida, at 5755 NW 87th Ave, in partnership with RSMG Holding. The 2,500ft² location accommodates 42 guests.
