CKE Restaurants Holdings has appointed Alisa Gmelich as president of Hardee’s, bringing in an experienced restaurant industry executive to lead the US burger chain’s growth strategy, strengthen franchisee relationships and improve the customer experience.
Gmelich announced the appointment on LinkedIn, writing: “I’m the new President of Hardee’s and I couldn’t be happier.” She said her priorities include working with franchisees and CKE’s team to develop the brand, adding that she plans to spend time in restaurants engaging directly with employees and customers.
“Our Made from Scratch biscuits and 100% Angus Burgers are the REAL thing and I can’t wait to jump in,” Gmelich wrote, highlighting the signature products she intends to champion in her new role.
Gmelich joins Hardee’s from Sprouts Farmers Market, where she served as chief marketing officer. Her previous leadership positions include brand president at Auntie Anne’s and senior roles at IHOP, McDonald’s and Burger King. Her experience spans restaurant marketing, brand development, customer engagement and franchising.
Reporting to CKE Chief Executive Officer Joe Guith, Gmelich will focus on strengthening collaboration with franchisees, advancing menu innovation and improving restaurant performance. She also thanked Guith for bringing her on board, noting that the two had worked together previously.
The appointment comes as CKE continues to strengthen leadership across its two principal brands, Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr. Iwona Alter leads Carl’s Jr., as the company builds dedicated leadership structures to support brand-specific strategies and operational execution.
Founded by Wilber Hardee in Greenville, North Carolina, in 1960, Hardee’s built its reputation around charbroiled burgers and breakfast products, particularly its Made From Scratch Biscuits. CKE acquired the chain in 1997, bringing it into the same corporate portfolio as Carl’s Jr., which was founded in California in 1941.
Hardee’s operates more than 1,400 restaurants across 31 US states through franchised and company-operated locations. Franchisees play a central role in the brand’s development, making operator relationships and restaurant-level performance important priorities for its new president.
Across Hardee’s and Carl’s Jr., CKE has an international presence spanning more than 35 countries and US territories. The company continues to pursue growth through franchise partnerships, working with local operators to develop its brands in international markets.
Gmelich takes charge as the US quick-service restaurant sector faces intense competition over value, menu innovation, digital ordering and customer loyalty. Her emphasis on working directly with franchisees, restaurant teams and customers signals a hands-on approach as Hardee’s seeks to strengthen its market position and support future growth.
