As part of a succession plan that was triggered late last year, Shake Shack appointed Rob Lynch as chief executive officer and board member, effective May 20, 2024.

Lynch currently serves as president and CEO of Papa Johns International. Ravi Thanawala, Papa Johns current chief financial officer, now serves as the company’s interim CEO.

Lynch will succeed Randy Garutti, who will continue as Shake Shack’s CEO through May 20, 2024. He will then serve as an advisor through the end of this year to ensure a smooth transition, per a company release.

In December of 2023, Garutti informed Shake Shack’s board of directors he planned to retire in 2024, which triggered a search for his replacement. Garutti has been with Shake Shack since its inception in 2004.

Lynch’s background includes serving as president of Arby’s and vice president of marketing at Taco Bell.