Staffing

Hardee's parent names former Domino's executive as 1st chief global development officer

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June 9, 2021

Hardee's and Carl's Jr. parent company, CKE Restaurants Holdings Inc., has named former Domino's franchise development executive, Matthew Walls, as its first chief global development officer, a news release said. As part of the role, Walls will be responsible for creating a Global Development Center of Excellence to increase the footprint of both brands domestically and internationally.

"Walls — as he is known in our industry — is experienced in delivering progressive business development strategies, innovative designs and solid partnerships with franchisees," CKE CEO Officer Ned Lyerly said in the release. "His global experience, strategic mindset and track record for successfully managing a Development Center of Excellence make him a great addition to our team."

Walls most recently served as senior vice president of global franchise development at Domino's Pizza, where he was stationed for the past 15 years. Under his leadership at the pizza chain, his team set multi-decade records for the most restaurant openings, according to the release. Prior to Domino's, he held operations, e-commerce and logistics positions at Yum! Brands and General Electric Appliances.

"I'm excited to join Ned and the leadership team as we build a new Center of Excellence to capitalize on our development insights from around the world," Walls said in the release. "Carl's Jr. and Hardee's are two iconic brands, each with an amazing heritage built by our franchisees. It's this strong heritage that gives us leverage to springboard restaurant growth globally throughout the CKE system."

CKE Restaurants Holdings Inc. is based in the Nashville, Tennessee area and includes over 3,800 restaurants in the Hardee's and Carl's Jr. chains.