Papa John’s promotes company president to share CEO job with chain’s founder

Papa John’s pizza company names co-CEO

LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Papa John’s International Inc. has promoted company President Jude Thompson to share the role of chief executive officer with the pizza chain’s founder and chairman, John Schnatter.

Schnatter said Thursday that Thompson’s promotion will allow the two to divide CEO-level responsibilities in a way that the board thinks plays to their strengths.

Schnatter will continue to focus on the company’s sourcing of ingredients, distribution and product quality. He’ll also remain the brand’s spokesman.

Thompson will be responsible for all other aspects of the day-to-day operations.

Schnatter has served in several executive capacities since starting the pizza company in 1984. Thompson joined the Papa John’s board in 2008 and was appointed president and chief operating officer in April 2009.

Louisville-based Papa John’s is the world’s third-largest pizza company.