Popeyes Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Popeyes has 10 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, technology, and finance.

Driven by a commitment to bold flavors, Popeyes is dedicated to delivering a unique and satisfying dining experience that celebrates its Louisiana heritage, impacting the global fast-food landscape.

Leadership Roles at Popeyes

  • Chief Executive Officer - Max Da
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Anjum Aziz
  • Chief Executive Officer, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (Kazakhstan) - Galiya Balkibekova
  • Chief Financial Officer - Mel Hope
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jeff Szush
  • Global Chief Operating Officer & Data Office Business Operations Specialist - Airi Ryu
  • Chief Operating Officer International - David Smith
  • Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations - Mamoon Fakira
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Matthew (Matt) Rubin
  • Chief Technology Officer - Khaled Abufardeh
  • Max Da - Chief Executive Officer

    Max Da, the Chief Executive Officer at Popeyes, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution for the global fast-food chain. Da's leadership focuses on driving sustainable growth and enhancing brand value across all markets. This executive role involves aligning departmental objectives with the company's long-term vision, ensuring profitability and market expansion. Overseeing key strategic initiatives, Max Da guides the company's direction in a competitive industry. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities include fostering innovation and maintaining the brand's distinct identity. Da's strategic decisions impact franchise development and overall business performance, solidifying Popeyes' position in the hospitality sector.

    Anjum Aziz - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Anjum Aziz, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Popeyes, spearheads the company's strategic direction and operational oversight. Aziz's mandate includes driving innovation, expanding market presence, and ensuring the consistent delivery of the Popeyes brand promise. This executive position involves close collaboration with regional leadership to optimize performance and achieve ambitious growth targets. The President & Chief Executive Officer's focus extends to cultivating a strong corporate culture and enhancing shareholder value. By championing new initiatives and refining existing processes, Anjum Aziz ensures operational excellence and sustained competitive advantage for Popeyes. Aziz's leadership is critical in navigating the dynamic fast-food industry landscape.

    Galiya Balkibekova - Chief Executive Officer, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (Kazakhstan)

    Galiya Balkibekova, the Chief Executive Officer, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (Kazakhstan) at Popeyes, leads the strategic development and operational management of the Popeyes brand within Kazakhstan. Balkibekova's role is crucial in adapting the global brand strategy to local market dynamics and consumer preferences. This executive position involves overseeing all aspects of the business in the region, from franchise relations to market expansion initiatives. The Chief Executive Officer, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (Kazakhstan)'s focus is on driving profitable growth and establishing a strong market presence. By implementing localized strategies and ensuring operational excellence, Galiya Balkibekova strengthens Popeyes' footprint in Central Asia. Balkibekova's leadership ensures regional success.

    Mel Hope - Chief Financial Officer

    Mel Hope, the Chief Financial Officer at Popeyes, oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting. Hope's strategic financial management ensures the company's fiscal health and supports its growth objectives. This executive role involves managing capital allocation, optimizing financial performance, and mitigating financial risks across the global operations. The Chief Financial Officer's primary goal is to drive profitability and enhance shareholder value through sound financial stewardship. By providing critical financial insights and strategic guidance, Mel Hope plays a key part in Popeyes' sustained success. Hope's financial acumen is essential for strategic decision-making.
    Mel Hope

    Jeff Szush - Chief Operating Officer

    Jeff Szush, the Chief Operating Officer at Popeyes, manages the day-to-day operations of the restaurant chain, ensuring efficiency and quality across all locations. Szush's responsibilities encompass optimizing supply chain logistics, enhancing restaurant performance, and implementing operational best practices. This executive role involves direct oversight of store operations and franchise support to maintain brand standards. The Chief Operating Officer's focus is on driving operational excellence and improving the customer experience. By streamlining processes and fostering operational innovation, Jeff Szush contributes significantly to the company's profitability and scalability. Szush's leadership ensures the seamless execution of Popeyes' business model.

    Airi Ryu - Global Chief Operating Officer & Data Office Business Operations Specialist

    Airi Ryu, the Global Chief Operating Officer & Data Office Business Operations Specialist at Popeyes, drives operational excellence and leverages data analytics to optimize business performance worldwide. Ryu's dual focus ensures that global operations are streamlined and informed by robust data insights. This executive role involves enhancing operational efficiency, implementing data-driven strategies, and overseeing business operations across international markets. The Global Chief Operating Officer & Data Office Business Operations Specialist's objective is to foster a culture of continuous improvement and data utilization. By integrating operational expertise with advanced data analytics, Airi Ryu enhances decision-making and drives strategic growth for Popeyes. Ryu's leadership optimizes global business functions.

    David Smith - Chief Operating Officer International

    David Smith, the Chief Operating Officer International at Popeyes, directs the operational strategies and execution for all Popeyes restaurants outside the United States. Smith's responsibilities include optimizing international supply chains, enhancing global restaurant performance, and ensuring consistent brand standards across diverse markets. This executive role is vital for driving growth and operational efficiency in Popeyes' expanding international portfolio. The Chief Operating Officer International's objective is to foster operational excellence and improve the customer experience in every global location. By implementing tailored regional strategies and best practices, David Smith significantly contributes to Popeyes' worldwide success. Smith's leadership ensures global operational integrity.

    Mamoon Fakira - Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations

    Mamoon Fakira, the Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations at Popeyes, oversees the critical functions of day-to-day store operations across the entire network. Fakira's leadership ensures that all Popeyes locations adhere to stringent operational standards, maintain high levels of customer service, and achieve optimal performance metrics. This executive role is fundamental to the brand's consistent delivery of quality and efficiency. The Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations' focus is on driving operational improvements, supporting franchise partners, and enhancing the in-store customer journey. By implementing effective operational strategies and fostering a culture of excellence, Mamoon Fakira plays a vital role in Popeyes' sustained success and brand reputation. Fakira's operational oversight is paramount.

    Matthew (Matt) Rubin - Chief Marketing Officer

    Matthew (Matt) Rubin, the Chief Marketing Officer at Popeyes, directs all marketing strategies and brand initiatives to enhance customer engagement and drive sales. Rubin's purview includes advertising campaigns, digital marketing, product innovation promotion, and market research to understand consumer preferences. This executive role is pivotal in shaping the brand's public image and expanding its market reach. The Chief Marketing Officer's objective is to strengthen Popeyes' competitive position through compelling brand storytelling and targeted promotions. By developing innovative marketing approaches, Matthew (Matt) Rubin ensures the brand resonates with its target audience and attracts new customers. Rubin's strategic vision fuels brand growth and loyalty.
    Matthew (Matt) Rubin

    Khaled Abufardeh - Chief Technology Officer

    Khaled Abufardeh, the Chief Technology Officer at Popeyes, leads the company's technology strategy and digital transformation efforts. Abufardeh's responsibilities include overseeing the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency and customer experience. This executive role is critical for integrating advanced systems, such as point-of-sale technology and digital ordering platforms, across the franchise network. The Chief Technology Officer's focus is on leveraging technology to drive business growth and maintain a competitive edge. By championing digital innovation, Khaled Abufardeh ensures Popeyes remains at the forefront of technological advancements in the fast-food industry. Abufardeh's expertise supports seamless digital operations.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Popeyes Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Popeyes?
    Popeyes is led by Max Da (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Anjum Aziz (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Galiya Balkibekova (Chief Executive Officer, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (Kazakhstan)).
    Who is part of Popeyes’s executive team?
    The executive team of Popeyes includes leaders such as Max Da (Chief Executive Officer), Anjum Aziz (President & Chief Executive Officer), Galiya Balkibekova (Chief Executive Officer, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (Kazakhstan)) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Popeyes have?
    Popeyes has 10 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Popeyes’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Popeyes includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer, Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen (Kazakhstan), Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer.