Krispy Kreme Doughnuts has appointed Dan Beem as its new senior vice president.

Beem, who’s appointment follows the abrupt resignation of former VP Jeff Welch, will also head the company’s international franchise division.

Beem has more than 20 years’ experience in the restaurant industry, having most recently served as president of US-based ice cream chain Cold Stone Creamery and Kahala Corp.

In his role he headed all international development, operations, and franchise development for Kahala’s 14 brands and more than 3000 stores worldwide, including more than 1500 Cold Stone Creamery locations in 25 countries.

Prior to joining Cold Stone in 2003, Beem held executive and management positions with Planet Hollywood, T.G.I. Fridays, Gordon Biersch Brewing Company, and NASCAR.

“We are truly delighted to have Dan join our team,” Jim Morgan, president and CEO of Krispy Kreme, said.

“His extensive restaurant experience and superb international track record make him an ideal fit to lead our ongoing international expansion and development efforts.

“We are also appreciative of Jeff Welch’s many years of service to Krispy Kreme and wish him well.”

Krispy Kreme has more than 800 stores in more than 20 countries around the world.