Papa John’s Controversial CEO Will Hand Reins to Lieutenant
- Move follows ‘divisive’ comments about NFL player protests
- New leader began as a customer-service representative in 1996
A logo in the likeness of John Schnatter, founder and chief executive officer of Papa John's International Inc., is displayed on the company's pizza box.
Photographer: Luke Sharrett/BloombergThis article is for subscribers only.
The controversial “papa” from Papa John’s International Inc. is stepping down as chief executive officer.
Company founder John Schnatter will hand the reins to Chief Operating Officer Steve Ritchie as of Jan. 1. The 43-year-old Ritchie, who began as a Papa John’s customer-service rep making $6 an hour in 1996, has been overseeing operations for the past three years.