The National Retail Federation (NRF) welcomed news reports that President-elect Donald Trump is expected to nominate CKE Restaurants CEO Andrew Puzder to head the Labor Department.

“Careers in retail and restaurants offer a path forward for millions of Americans, and hiring an employer from this sector for the important role of Labor Secretary would show that President-elect Trump knows the value of these opportunities,” NRF Senior Vice President for Government Relations David French said. “Andrew Puzder is someone with the real-world experience to understand workforce issues and how jobs are created.”

“Mr. Puzder has been an ally in our efforts to emphasize the dynamic careers available in the retail and restaurant industries, and he would bring to the job his experience in balancing the needs of all stakeholders in the American workforce. NRF is committed to long-term investments in workforce development and we look forward to working with him to advance a strong pro-jobs agenda in Washington.”

CKE Restaurants, the parent company of Hardee’s, Carl’s Jr. and Green Burrito, is a member of NRF’s National Council of Chain Restaurants division.