Wendy's U.S. President Resigns; Company Eliminates Role, Creates New COO Position

The Wendy's Company announced the resignation of Pete Suerken, President, U.S., effective August 31, 2026. In conjunction with this departure and as part of a broader restructuring, the company is eliminating the President, U.S. position and creating a new Chief Operations Officer (COO) role.

Key Details

• Executive Departure: Pete Suerken is resigning to become the President and CEO of Quality Supply Chain Co-op, Inc. (QSCC), the independent purchasing cooperative for the Wendy's system.
• Organizational Change: The company will eliminate the President, U.S. role and is actively recruiting for a new Chief Operations Officer (COO) who will report to the company's CEO.
• Compensation Arrangement: In connection with his departure, Mr. Suerken will receive pro-rated accelerated vesting of 80,481 restricted stock units and a pro-rated portion of his 2026 annual cash incentive.