Target exec joins C-suite at Papa John’s

Papa John’s International Inc. named a new finance head.

The pizza chain has appointed Ann Gugino as CFO. She succeeds Steve Coke, who has been serving in the role on an interim basis. He will continue as VP of investor relations and strategy. 

Gugino joins from Target Corp., where she was senior VP of financial planning and analysis, providing overall strategy, guidance and direction in the development and execution of Target’s planning, analysis and capital investment portfolios. 

Prior to that, Gugino spent 18 years at Patterson Companies Inc., a medical supplies conglomerate, including four years as executive president and CFO.

Papa John’s has seen significant growth during the pandemic. In its second quarter, which ended June 28, the company posted North American systemwide sales growth of 28%

“Ann is a proven leader and change agent, who brings deep experience in the consumer and retail sector, including driving demand and profitability across digital and traditional commerce at Target,” said Rob Lynch, president and CEO, Papa John’s, which has more than 5,300 restaurants in 48 countries and territories. “Ann’s appointment rounds out one of the most capable and diverse leadership teams in our industry. The breadth and depth of our team’s strengths, backgrounds and perspectives are crucial advantages for Papa John’s and essential to our long-term innovation and growth plans.”