Kerrii Anderson, who had been Wendy’s interim CEO and president, has been appointed to those posts on a permanent basis.

“Following a national search over the past six months, we have decided that Kerrii is our best choice for CEO,” said chairman Jim Pickett. “Kerrii has demonstrated excellent leadership skills. As interim CEO, she began a transformation of the company, improved Wendy’s performance, developed a new strategic plan and executed several transactions that will continue to create value for shareholders.”

Anderson joined Wendy’s in September 2000 as executive vice president and CFO, and was appointed to the Board in November 2000. In addition to her accounting and finance responsibilities, she has managed key areas of the corporation, including Strategic Planning, Human Resources, Supply Chain, Information Technology and Wendy’s bakery.

“I look forward to continuing to lead this great brand and consider it a privilege to work with the entire Wendy’s system,” said Anderson. “We have a talented management team, dedicated employees, and outstanding franchisees that have supported me and the management team. Over the past six months we have restructured the company and we will continue to aggressively manage our brand for success. Our highest priority is to build on our positive momentum and significantly improve profits in every Wendy’s restaurant in the system.”

The company will begin a search for a new CFO, and will consider both internal and external candidates.