LOUISVILLE, Ky. -  Louisville-based Papa John's International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) named Rob Lynch its new President and Chief Executive Officer and he takes over the job immediately.

Before arriving at Papa John's, Lynch was President of Arby's, the world's second-largest sandwich restaurant brand. He is credited with the brand's turn-around which brought growth and profitability.

Jeff Smith, Chairman of the Papa John’s Board of Directors, said, “I am thrilled to welcome Rob to Papa John’s at this pivotal moment in the company’s history. His proven record transforming organizations and realizing the growth potential of differentiated brands is ideally suited for Papa John’s as the company sets forth on its next chapter." 

Lynch replaces Steve Ritchie who was named President and CEO on January 1, 2018. Ritchie started with the company in 1996 as a customer service representative and worked his way up. Smith said, " I would also like to thank Steve Ritchie for his steady leadership as CEO over the past year and a half. Papa John’s is stronger today because of Steve’s good work stabilizing the company, and our business continues to perform on plan." No word on where Ritchie is going next.

The company says Lynch's priority will be to build on Papa John's history of food, customer service, and strong team members. Lynch is known for growing brands and "reigniting purpose-driven organizations."

“I am humbled and excited by the opportunity to work with this outstanding team to help make Papa John’s the best pizza company in the world,” Mr. Lynch commented. “Papa John’s has the most loved pizza in the industry, incredibly dedicated team members and franchisees that have proven their resilience and commitment, and a long history of innovation that puts the company at the front of where the foodservice industry is going. I look forward to building on these strengths, working with Papa John’s team members, franchisees and business partners. I absolutely believe that Papa John’s best days are ahead.”