DUBLIN, OHIO – The Wendy’s Company announced Beverly Stallings-Johnson, PhD, will lead the Company's efforts to advance and promote diversity, equity and inclusion across the Wendy's global system, including with employees, franchisees and suppliers through the newly created position of vice president, chief diversity, equity & inclusion officer.

“Core to the Wendy's values is a commitment to treat people with respect and create a workplace and community that promotes our shared ideals of diversity, equity and inclusion,” said Todd Penegor, president and chief executive officer. “Beverly will be a critical leader within the Wendy's System to help advance our journey as an employer of choice and community member.”

Before joining Wendy’s, Stallings-Johnson led the city of Columbus, Ohio’s Office of Diversity and Inclusion as the chief diversity officer. She partnered with Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther to work to advance the equity agenda and impact disparities across the nearly million residents of the city.

Stallings-Johnson has resided in central Ohio for 15 years and brings a deep connection to Wendy's hometown, as well as a national perspective on leading diversity, equity and inclusion efforts throughout the public and private sectors. Stallings-Johnson spent over 25 years in roles of increasing responsibility with Xerox prior to her role with the city of Columbus.

“I am delighted to join Wendy's at this critical juncture in the organization's history,” Stallings-Johnson said. “I welcome the opportunity to remain close to the Columbus community while also exploring how Wendy's can tap its global reach to promote welcoming and inclusive communities and workplaces.”

Stallings-Johnson received her BA in Marketing & Communications from the University of Richmond; an MS in Management from Marymount University; and a PhD in Management & Organizational Development, Culture & Change Management from California Coast University.