LOUISVILLE, KY. — Tony Thompson has been promoted to president and chief operating officer of Papa John’s International, Inc. He will report to John Schnatter, founder, chairman and chief executive officer. Papa John’s had been without a president since April 2011, when Jude Thompson resigned and Mr. Schnatter assumed his responsibilities.

Mr. Thompson most recently was executive vice-president, c.o.o. and president of PJ Food Service. He is responsible for leading the company’s global operations and will continue to lead the operations of PJ Food Service, Inc., Papa John’s food manufacturing and distribution subsidiary; research and development/quality assurance, development, marketing and information systems functions.

Mr. Thompson joined Papa John’s in 2006 and has held the positions of executive vice-president, North American Operations, from December 2010 to July 2011, senior vice-president, PJ Food Service, from 2009 to May 2010 and vice-president, QCC Operations, from 2006 to 2009. Prior to joining Papa John’s, he worked for the Scotts Co. for six years as plant manager, director of Marysville operations and director of lawn and controls operations. Before joining the Scotts Co., he spent four years with ConAgra Grocery Products Co. and seven years in various roles with Gulf Coast Coca Cola.

“Tony has been a tremendous asset to the entire Papa John’s system,” Mr. Schnatter said. “I will continue to partner with him in his new role as we provide leadership to achieve our plans for international and domestic growth and continue to position the company for long-term success.”