Thompson Leaves Papa John's

Published on Tuesday, April 19, 2011

Written by The Editors

J. Jude Thompson has resigned his post as president, co-chief executive officer and member of the board of directors for Papa John's International, Inc. (NASDAQ: PZZA). With Thompson's departure, John Schnatter, company's founder, chairman and chief executive officer, will assume sole responsibility for the chief executive officer role, while also continuing to serve as chairman of the board. Schnatter created the Papa John's concept in 1984 and also serves as brand spokesperson.

Thompson, who has been a director of Papa John's since 2008 and an officer of the company since 2009, is leaving to spend time focusing on his interests in Arison Insurance Services, a Louisville-based insurance agency, and to pursue other opportunities, according to a company release. Thompson is a principal and co-founder of Assurance Investment Partners, Inc., owner of Arison Insurance Services.