David Novak, president, CEO and chairman of the board of Yum! Brands. One of Harvard Business Review’s Top 100 CEOs in the world, he has demonstrated the depth of his business acumen during his nine years leading the largest QSR company.

Roland Smith, president and CEO of Wendy’s/Arby’s Group, CEO of Wendy’s. Smith made the merger of Wendy’s and Arby’s a smooth one but faces challenges as both brands struggle with sagging comps.

Nigel Travis, CEO of Dunkin’ Brands, president of Dunkin’ Donuts. Travis has reorganized the company and brought in a host of fresh faces in several departments at both Dunkin’ Donuts and Baskin-Robbins.

Linda Lang, CEO and chairman of Jack In the Box Inc. From the accounts payable department to top brand innovator, Lang knows what the chain must do to become a national brand.

McDonald’s heir apparent Ralph Alvarez, then-president and chief operations officer, unexpectedly retired for health reasons in December 2009. Dennis Hennequin, president of McDonald’s Europe, analysts have speculated he may be next in line.

Timothy Fenton, president of McDonald’s Asia-Pacific region since 2005, is another McExec analysts have seen as a good fit as the company’s next CEO. He oversees 8,200 units in 38 countries in the region and has led the turnaround in China.