In an effort to improve the brand's digital and international efforts, Wendy's revealed changes in its senior leadership position.
Dublin's Todd Penegor will work with Darrell van Ligten as the new executive vice president, chief financial officer and international. Penegor was previously the senior vice president and chief financial officer for Ohio locations. He will be in-charge of development, finance and information technology for the international division.
Chief Operations Officer Bob Wright is promoted as the executive vice president, chief operations officer. He will continue his 20 years of leadership in the industry by acquiring a larger portfolio of dealing with customers. Wright will oversee the development of in-restaurant technology and facilities.
Emil Brolick, president and chief executive officer of Wendy's, said that both Penegor and Wright had “extraordinary” contributions to the Company and its franchisees.
“As we continue the transformation of the Wendy’s brand, the board of directors and I have the highest confidence that Todd’s and Bob’s elevated leadership roles will spur even greater growth and performance,” said Brolick.
Wendy's said in a statement that it also aims to “further its commitment to restaurant development and consumer-facing technology as growth engines for the brand.” In November, the company realigns the G&A resources to reduce overall spending. It aims to further invest the reallocated funds on development and technology.
Abigail Pringle will head the efforts as the Chief Development Officer and will be part of the Senior Leadership Team. She previously lead the company's Image Activation efforts as the Senior Vice President Restaurant Development & Growth Initiatives.
Brandon Rhoten, leader of the company's digital marketing efforts, will join Pringle as the vice president for Digital Experience.
Brolick said, “Wendy's brand relevance and future growth will depend on increasing consumer access to the brand through restaurant development, and will be enabled by consumer-preferred technology investments.”
Other leadership changes include Craig Bahner stepping down as Chief Marketing Officer, to be replaced by Brandon Solano.
