News

Papa John’s names new member of executive team

December 9, 2010

Tony Thompson has been promoted to an executive vice president role at Papa John’s International Inc. In his new position, he will oversee the company’s North American operations.

Thompson also will continue in his role as president, PJ Food Service and Research and Development, which is responsible for quality control center operations, strategic supply chain management and research and development/quality assurance. PJ Food Service also is Papa John’s preferred marketing solutions printing and promotions subsidiary.

Thompson will report to John Schnatter and Jude Thompson, Papa John’s co-CEOs.

With Thompson's promotion, Steve Ritchie has been bumped up to senior vice president, operations, and will be responsible for leading Papa John’s domestic company-owned operations. Ritchie has been a part of the company’s system since 1996, serving most recently as vice president, global operations support and training. Also, since 2006, Ritchie has served as operating partner for 19-store franchise Capital Pizza.

Additionally, Tim North, senior vice president, North American operations, will head up Papa John’s expanding franchise operations, including throughout the continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii and Canada. He previously served as the company’s division vice president for the Northeast region, which includes 100 company-owned and about 400 franchised units.

North and Ritchie will report to Thompson.

“Tony has done an outstanding job driving efficiencies and improvements throughout our global distribution, quality assurance and supply chain functions,” said Jude Thompson. “Supported by talented and experienced operators in Steve Ritchie and Tim North, we look forward to Tony expanding his leadership to our North American operations teams.”