ATLANTA -- Tom Garrett, 48, president and chief executive officer of Arby’s Restaurant Group Inc., is leaving the company, announced Wendy’s/Arby’s Group Inc., the third-largest quick-service restaurant company in the U.S. Roland Smith, 55, president and c.e.o. of Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, will assume the interim role as president of Arby’s, effective immediately.

A search is currently under way for a permanent president of Arby’s.

"Tom made enormous contributions to the Arby’s brand over the past 29 years,” Mr. Smith said. “He is a man of honor and integrity, who has worked relentlessly to build the brand. We are beginning discussions with Tom about becoming an Arby’s franchisee and hope that he continues to be involved with the brand.”

Mr. Garrett was appointed president and c.e.o. of Arby’s in September 2008, following the formation of Wendy’s/Arby’s Group. He was previously president and chief operating officer of Arby’s and held many leadership and operations positions with the Arby’s brand.