Hershey Appoints New President and Chief Executive Officer
New Leadership at The Hershey Company
The Hershey Company has announced that Kirk Tanner will be taking over as the company's new president and CEO, effective August 18, 2025. Tanner currently holds the position of president and CEO at The Wendy's Company, a role he has been in since February 2024.
Tanner brings a wealth of experience to Hershey, having spent over 31 years at PepsiCo, Inc. He has held several senior leadership positions, including CEO of PepsiCo Beverages North America, president of PepsiCo Global Foodservice Division, and senior vice president and general manager for Frito-Lay West Division. Tanner began his career as a merchandising and sales representative intern at Procter & Gamble.
Mary Kay Haben, the lead independent director and chair of the CEO search committee at Hershey, made the announcement. She praised Tanner's leadership qualities and experience in the food and beverage industry, stating that his extensive experience spanning snacks, beverages, mergers and acquisitions, and innovation makes him well suited to lead Hershey into the future.
Tanner will be stepping into the role vacated by Michele Buck, who is officially retiring at the end of the calendar year. Haben also thanked Buck for her leadership at Hershey. During a brief transition process, Buck will work with Tanner to ensure a smooth handover.
[1] The Hershey Company Press Release, [link to press release] [2] The Wendy's Company Press Release, [link to press release] [3] PepsiCo Inc. Press Release, [link to press release]
- Kirk Tanner's transition from President and CEO of The Wendy's Company to the same role at The Hershey Company is expected to significantly impact the company's supply chain and finance operations, as he has shown exemplary leadership in these areas during his career at PepsiCo Inc.
- As a trailblazer in the food and drink industry, with a proven track record in innovative business strategies, Kirk Tanner is well-positioned to redefine Hershey's lifestyle products, setting new standards for the food-and-drink sector.
- With Kirk Tanner at the helm, Hershey's business model is set to undergo a transformation, reflecting his extensive experience in mergers and acquisitions, ensuring the company's future growth and success.
