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The Hershey Company has announced Kirk Tanner as its new President and CEO, effective August 18, 2025. Tanner, currently the CEO of Wendy's, will succeed Michele Buck, who is retiring. Buck has been with Hershey for several years and will assist Tanner in the transition as a senior advisor.
Tanner is an experienced leader in the food and beverage industry, having spent over 30 years at PepsiCo. He served as CEO of PepsiCo Beverages North America, overseeing a $28 billion business. His leadership at PepsiCo was marked by growth through brand building, innovation, and customer partnerships. At Wendy's, Tanner focused on core brand growth and operational excellence.
Mary Kay Haben, Lead Independent Director and Chair of the CEO Search Committee, praised Tanner's combination of consumer passion, commercial acumen, and operational scale. She emphasized his experience in snacks, beverages, mergers and acquisitions, and innovation as key assets for leading Hershey into the future.
According to a press release, Tanner expressed his excitement about leading Hershey, stating, "Leading Hershey is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make a difference with loved brands."
Hershey, known for its iconic brands like Reese's and Kit Kat, aims to advance its ambition to be a leading snacking powerhouse. Tanner's appointment comes as the company continues to focus on long-term, sustainable growth.