Celebrating a Legacy: Mike Woida's Impact on CKE Restaurants for Nearly Five Decades

Mike Woida: A Pillar of CKE Restaurants' International Expansion

Today marks a significant milestone for CKE Restaurants as the company announces the retirement of Mike Woida, its president of International operations, after nearly half a century with the brand. Mike's remarkable 48-year journey with CKE has not only shaped his career but has also been instrumental in the global expansion and ongoing success of the Carl's Jr.® and Hardee's® brands.

Mike Woida's tenure began in 1976, when he joined Burger Chef Systems. He quickly climbed the corporate ladder, demonstrating considerable leadership skills that led to his involvement in transforming Burger Chef locations into Hardee's franchises in Detroit during the early 1980s. His expertise came into full play when he joined Hardee's international division in 1993, helping the brand gain a foothold in Asia, which laid the groundwork for future global operations.

As the president of CKE's International division since 2019, Mike Woida played a pivotal role in the company's strategic initiatives that expanded its reach to more than 35 countries worldwide. Under his guidance, CKE achieved system sales exceeding $1.5 billion, setting ambitious goals to further expand, including a planned entry into the United Kingdom by 2025. The company’s goal is to establish 2,000 international locations over the coming years, underscoring the momentum generated during Woida's leadership.

“Mike’s contributions to CKE have been truly exceptional,” remarked Sarah Spiegel, the interim CEO of CKE Restaurants. “His leadership and vision have played a critical role in our success, leaving a legacy of collaboration and innovation that will continue to guide us as we grow globally.” Woida's approach centered around a commitment to building robust teams and fostering an environment that prioritized excellence at every level of the organization.

What sets CKE apart under Woida’s leadership is its unique ability to combine bold flavors and innovative promotions. Notably, the company is known for its limited-time offerings and strategic partnerships that have captivated customers. The growth trajectory of CKE’s international division speaks volumes of Woida’s dedication and the pivotal role of its hard-working teams.

“The milestone of reaching 1,000 restaurants beyond U.S. borders is a testament to the tireless dedication of everyone involved. I am confident that our incredible international team will continue to build on this foundation and drive CKE's global growth,” expressed Woida as he reflected on his career.

As CKE gears up for the future, its leaders are already on the lookout for Woida's successor. In the meantime, Rodrigo de la Torre, who currently serves as the Senior Vice President of International Development, has been appointed as the Interim President of the International division, ensuring a seamless transition during this significant shift.

In closing, Mike Woida leaves behind a legacy characterized by international expansion, innovative growth strategies, and team-driven excellence. The journey he embarked upon with CKE over the last 48 years inspires gratitude and respect from both employees and customers alike.

As he steps into retirement, Woida expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the opportunities provided throughout his career. “Spending my entire career with one company has been a rare and rewarding journey, offering me the privilege of working with incredible teams across more than 50 countries and cultures. I am excited to see the continued growth and expansion of these beloved international brands.”

Now positioned for an even brighter future, CKE Restaurants looks to build on the strong foundation laid by Mike Woida, continuing to delight customers around the globe with its premium and innovative menu offerings. For more information about CKE and its brands, visit CKE Restaurants or Carl's Jr. and Hardee's.