Carl’s Jr., Hardee’s Parent CKE Restaurants Promotes Ned Lyerly to CEO

In a surprise move, CKE Restaurants Holdings Inc. announced the promotion of brand veteran Ned Lyerly to CEO on April 12. According to an article in Nation’s Restaurant News, Lyerly, a 30-year veteran of the brand, replaces Jason Marker, who had served in the role since 2017. The parent company of Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s did not reveal any details about the nature of Marker’s departure.

QSR Magazine noted that Lyerly, who most recently served as president of international at CKE, has also held a number of other senior roles with the company over the years, including development, finance, marketing, and franchise operations.

“Ned is a focused leader and proven restaurant operator who is deeply respected by many within CKE’s franchise community,” company board member Ezra Field said in a statement included in the article. “His track record of success, passion for our brands and deep understanding of the business make him the right leader for CKE going forward.”