IHOP president to retire, Yum! Brands leader named successor
Family dining chain IHOP has named its next president.
Jay Johns will retire from his position on Jan. 6, 2025 after 16 years with IHOP’s parent company Dine Brands and six as president of the chain. He will remain with Dine Brands in an advisory capacity until March 2025. Lawrence Kim, previously chief innovation officer at Yum! Brands, has been appointed president designee effective Oct. 21, and will assume title of IHOP president on Jan. 6.
Under Johns’ leadership, IHOP says the chain greatly expanded its menu, drove operational improvements and improved the guest experience of its diners.
"It has been an honor to lead IHOP and work alongside the hardest working team and franchisees in the industry," said Johns. "I am incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together, and I have every confidence that Lawrence Kim will continue to drive the brand forward with passion and vision."
Kim brings over 20 years of leadership experience to IHOP, having held multiple senior leadership roles at large companies. He most recently served as chief innovation officer at Yum! Brands since 2021, and previously held high-level positions at Taco Bell, Samsung and Procter & Gamble. As president of IHOP, Kim will oversee the continued expansion of the brand, with a focus on innovation, guest experience, and restaurant development growth.
"Stepping into the leadership role of this iconic brand is a true privilege," said Kim. "I have cherished memories of dining at IHOP with family and friends, and I'm thrilled to join this exceptional team. Together with our dedicated franchisees, we'll work tirelessly to ensure that IHOP continues to be an integral part of family culture for generations to come.”
As of June 30, 2024, there are 1,811 IHOP restaurants around the world, including restaurants in all 50 states, two U.S. territories and 13 countries outside the U.S.
