NATION

James W. Near was named president and chief operating officer of Wendy’s International Inc., based in Dublin, Ohio. He replaces Ronald Fay, who announced his retirement effective at the end of the year, the company said.

Wendy’s said Near--currently president and chief operating officer of Sisters restaurants, a Wendy’s subsidiary--would take over immediately. Fay will serve as vice chairman during the transition period and will remain on the company’s board of directors and serve as a consultant after this year.