CKE Restaurants Welcomes Ewan Davenport as New International President to Drive Global Growth

CKE Restaurants Welcomes Ewan Davenport

Franklin, Tennessee, June 4, 2025 – CKE Restaurants Holdings, Inc., the parent company of renowned brands Carl's Jr.® and Hardee's®, has announced the appointment of Ewan Davenport as President of International. This significant move signals CKE's ongoing commitment to expanding its brands beyond U.S. borders.

Ewan Davenport brings over 20 years of rich experience in the quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector, previously demonstrating his expertise at YUM! Brands, particularly with Pizza Hut. His impressive portfolio includes roles such as Managing Director for Global Franchise Markets and Managing Director covering the Middle East, Turkey, and Africa. His tenure at YUM! was marked by an aggressive growth strategy and flourishing franchise relations across various international markets, which he will now implement at CKE.

In Davenport’s own words, “I am incredibly excited to join the CKE team and lead the international division for such iconic brands as Carl's Jr. and Hardee's. There is immense potential for growth in existing markets and opportunities to introduce our beloved burgers to new guests around the world.”

CKE CEO Joe Guith wholeheartedly supports this new appointment, stating, “We are thrilled to welcome Ewan Davenport to our executive team. His extensive international background and proven leadership in the QSR industry position him as the perfect choice to spearhead our global growth.” Under Davenport’s guidance, CKE aims to solidify its strategy to expand its international footprint and enhance its overall brand presence.

With over 1,100 Carl's Jr. and Hardee's locations across more than 40 countries, CKE is well-established on the global stage. Davenport's new role will entail overseeing the strategic development of CKE's brands, ensuring innovation, operational success, and the enrichment of franchisee relationships, which are crucial elements for maintaining CKE's status as a leading QSR provider globally.

CKE operates both Carl's Jr. and Hardee's, which are well-known for their premium menu offerings, including the iconic chargrilled burgers and Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders™. The company has affirmed its dedication to expanding its international operations and looks forward to tapping into fresh markets under Davenport’s leadership.

As CKE steps into this new chapter, the combination of Davenport's experience and the company's existing strong operational foundation promises to enhance growth strategies, driving the successful introduction of established U.S. favorites to a global audience. CKE looks ahead with optimism, aiming to bring its renowned food and service to even more customers around the world.

For further information about CKE Restaurants and its offerings, visit www.ckr.com as well as the brand sites at www.carlsjr.com and www.hardees.com.