LOUISVILLE, KY. — J. Jude Thompson, president and chief operating officer of Papa John’s International, Inc. since April 2009 and co-chief executive officer since April 2010, has left the company to focus on his interests in Arison Insurance Services, a Louisville-based insurance agency, and to pursue other opportunities.

“We thank Jude for his service to Papa John’s,” said John H. Schnatter, the company’s founder, chairman and c.e.o. “We’ve accomplished a lot during his three years with the company and we wish him well.”

With Mr. Thompson’s departure, Mr. Schnatter will assume sole responsibility for the c.e.o. role, while also continuing to serve as chairman of the board. He created the Papa John’s concept in 1984 and also serves as brand spokesperson.