CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc., parent company of Carl’s Jr. and Hardee’s restaurants announced two strategic appointments to its leadership team as the company continues to accelerate growth domestically and abroad. Charles Jemley joins as Chief Financial Officer and Kerry Olson joins as Chief Legal Officer and General Counsel.
“I am proud to add two distinguished leaders to our team and am excited to welcome Charles and Kerry to CKE,” says Jason Marker, CKE chief executive officer. “Both bring valuable food industry experience that will help guide the growth and evolution of our company and brands.”
In his role as CFO, Jemley will oversee global financial operations to include building an infrastructure that is optimized in support of CKE’s global growth strategy. He joins from Starbucks Coffee Company where over the past 12 years he served in a number of senior positions across both the international and domestic businesses, most recently as the senior vice president, Finance for Starbucks Roastery and Reserve. Prior to joining Starbucks, he spent 15 years at Yum Brands including roles in Finance, Development and finally as CFO for the high growth China Division based in Shanghai. Jemley received his B.A. from the University of Louisville and holds an MBA from the University of Washington.
“Charles brings extensive financial, operational, and strategic experience to CKE. Combined with a deep knowledge of the [quick-service] industry, he will be instrumental as we enter our next phase of growth and expand the footprint of our brands,” says Marker.
In her role as CLO and General Counsel, Olson will lead global legal strategy and oversee day-to-day operations of the CKE Legal department. She joins from Faegre Baker Daniels LLP, where she was a partner at the international law firm serving clients worldwide. She spent over a decade of her career in the food industry, serving as Assistant General Counsel at both Buffalo Wild Wings and International Dairy Queen Inc. prior to her role as Global General Counsel at Carlson Hotels. Olson received her B.A. from St. Olaf College and a law degree from the University of Minnesota.
“We are pleased to have a distinguished law professional of Kerry’s caliber join the CKE leadership team to help guide our continued global growth,” adds Marker. “With both traditional and specialized legal experience, I look forward to seeing what new perspectives she will bring as a key leader in our company.”