Kirk Tanner takes over as Hershey's CEO in leadership shift

On July 8, 2025, the Hershey Company announced that Kirk Tanner, the current CEO of Wendy's, will step into the role of president and CEO of Hershey effective August 18, 2025. This significant leadership change follows the earlier announcement by Michele Buck, the outgoing CEO, who disclosed her intention to resign at the beginning of the year. Kirk Tanner, a seasoned veteran in the food and beverage sector, brings over 30 years of experience from PepsiCo, where he held multiple leadership roles including CEO. The decision to appoint Tanner reflects Hershey's strategic focus on innovation and operational excellence as they continue to evolve in the competitive snacks and confectionery market. Mary Kay Haben, who is the director and chair of Hershey's CEO search committee, expressed confidence in Tanner's capabilities, citing his understanding of market dynamics, customer engagement, and operational scale as critical attributes for leading Hershey moving forward. Furthermore, during her tenure, Michele Buck was recognized for her exceptional leadership, having steered the company through various transformative phases and establishing a strong vision for the future. As Tanner prepares to take on this new role, he will work closely with Buck to ensure a smooth transition, which is vital for maintaining the company's momentum. In the interim, Wendy's will appoint Ken Cook, the current CFO, as the interim CEO starting July 18, while they search for a permanent replacement. This leadership transition is pivotal, not just for Hershey, but also for Wendy's, which will be looking to fill a significant leadership void as they navigate their brand's future strategies.