Shake Shack has named Papa John's current president and CEO Rob Lynch as its new CEO and board member, effective from 20 May 2024.

Lynch will succeed Randy Garutti, whose forthcoming departure was announced in December 2023.

Garutti will remain in his role until the transition date and will serve as an adviser until the end of this year to facilitate a smooth handover.

Shake Shack founder and board of directors chairman Danny Meyer stated: “Rob’s appointment as CEO marks the beginning of our next chapter of growth as we seek to further elevate Shake Shack as a leading global brand.

“Rob’s deep leadership experience with several well-established global brands will serve us well in executing our long-term strategic priorities as we enter the next phase of our company’s growth.

“Rob’s leadership style is also a wonderful fit to advance Shake Shack’s culture of enlightened hospitality, and we are thrilled to welcome him to the team.”

Papa John's has appointed its current chief financial officer Ravi Thanawala, who joined the company in 2023, as its interim CEO.

Thanawala said: “I’m honoured to step in as Interim CEO during this transition period and thank the Papa Johns's board of directors for its confidence in me.

“We have a talented executive leadership team, a strong group of franchisees and dedicated team members behind this iconic brand who will continue to deliver on our Back to Better 2.0 strategy and international transformation initiatives, creating long-term value for all of our stakeholders.”

Lynch will continue to support Papa John's in an advisory capacity until 30 April 2024.