
Papa John’s Appoints Kevin Vasconi as Chief Digital and Technology Officer
Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) has announced the appointment of Kevin Vasconi as Chief Digital and Technology Officer, effective immediately. Vasconi, a seasoned leader in enterprise technology, previously served as Chief Information Officer at The Wendy’s Company, where he spearheaded a digital transformation that tripled the company’s e-commerce business in just three years through a customer-focused strategy.
In his new role, Vasconi will be responsible for shaping and executing Papa John’s long-term digital and technology strategies across customer-facing platforms, restaurant systems, and corporate technology operations. His responsibilities will include overseeing enterprise architecture, engineering, data analytics, information security, and scalable technology solutions for the company’s global franchise network. He will work closely with marketing and restaurant operations to develop innovative solutions that enhance both customer and employee experiences, further strengthening the brand’s position in the competitive quick-service restaurant (QSR) sector.
Todd Penegor, President and CEO of Papa John’s, expressed confidence in Vasconi’s abilities, having worked with him at The Wendy’s Company. “Kevin has a proven track record of driving technological innovation that benefits customers, employees, and franchisees. His leadership in the QSR space has been widely recognized, and I am excited to collaborate with him to enhance Papa John’s digital presence and build future-ready technology platforms,” said Penegor.
Before joining The Wendy’s Company, Vasconi held the position of Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer at Domino’s, where he was instrumental in expanding both domestic and international e-commerce operations. With over 35 years of experience in technology, including leadership roles at Ford Motor Company, Covisint LLC, and Stanley Black & Decker, Vasconi brings a wealth of knowledge to Papa John’s.
“I’m thrilled to join Papa John’s and lead the company’s technology initiatives,” said Vasconi. “The restaurant industry offers unique opportunities to engage with consumers through technology, and Papa John’s has a history of innovation in this space. As the QSR digital landscape becomes increasingly competitive, I look forward to working with the team to drive growth and create exceptional experiences for our customers.”
Vasconi will report directly to Penegor and will be a member of Papa John’s Executive Leadership Team. Additionally, current Executive Leadership team members Ravi Thanawala and Joe Sieve will take on expanded roles within the organization.
Ravi Thanawala, the company’s Chief Financial Officer, has been promoted to Chief Financial Officer and Executive Vice President, International. He will now oversee Papa John’s international operations alongside his CFO duties.
Joe Sieve has been named Chief Restaurant and Global Development Officer, where he will lead the company’s global expansion efforts and oversee corporate and franchise restaurant operations.
About Papa John’s
Founded in 1984, Papa John’s International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA) operates with a commitment to delivering “Better Ingredients. Better Pizza.®” The company prides itself on using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh, never frozen dough and mozzarella made from real cheese. Known for removing artificial flavors and synthetic colors from its menu, Papa John’s has approximately 5,900 restaurants across nearly 50 countries and territories. For more information or to place an order, visit www.PapaJohns.com or download the Papa John’s app.
Forward-Looking Statements
This press release contains forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties. For a detailed discussion of these risks, please refer to the “Risk Factors” section in the company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2023. Papa John’s does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements.