Popeyes Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Popeyes has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, marketing, and technology.

Driven by a commitment to culinary excellence, Popeyes is dedicated to delivering bold flavors and a superior guest experience, solidifying its position as a global leader in the quick-service restaurant industry.

Leadership Roles at Popeyes

  • Chief Executive Officer - D. Colston
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Anjum Aziz
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jeff Szush
  • Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations - Mamoon Fakira
  • Chief Operating Officer International - David Smith
  • President - Khawar Mian
  • President - Oswald Bruce
  • President - Layla Gee
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Susan Chiang
  • Chief Technology Officer - Khaled Abufardeh
  • D. Colston - Chief Executive Officer

    D. Colston, the Chief Executive Officer at Popeyes, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term vision. This leadership role involves guiding all major business units to ensure alignment with market demands and growth objectives. Colston oversees the executive team, fostering a culture of innovation and operational excellence essential for maintaining Popeyes' competitive edge in the fast-food sector. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to stakeholder relations and ensuring the company's financial health and expansion across diverse markets. By setting strategic priorities, D. Colston drives the company's mission to deliver exceptional fried chicken and a distinct Louisiana-inspired culinary experience to a global customer base.
    D. Colston

    Anjum Aziz - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Anjum Aziz, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Popeyes, spearheads the company's strategic direction and operational execution. This executive leadership position involves overseeing all facets of the business, from franchise development to brand management, ensuring sustained growth and profitability. Aziz's mandate includes driving innovation in menu offerings and customer engagement strategies to enhance the Popeyes brand globally. The President & Chief Executive Officer works closely with regional leaders to adapt strategies for local market nuances, thereby maximizing market penetration and guest satisfaction. Anjum Aziz's leadership ensures the consistent delivery of Popeyes' signature flavors and a superior dining experience across its extensive network.

    Jeff Szush - Chief Operating Officer

    Jeff Szush, the Chief Operating Officer at Popeyes, manages the day-to-day operational efficiency and performance of the restaurant chain. This critical role focuses on optimizing supply chain logistics, ensuring consistent product quality, and enhancing the guest experience across all locations. Szush oversees the implementation of operational standards and best practices, driving improvements in service speed and restaurant management. The Chief Operating Officer collaborates with franchise partners to support their operational success and adherence to brand guidelines. By streamlining processes and fostering operational excellence, Jeff Szush directly contributes to the profitability and scalability of Popeyes' extensive franchise network, ensuring a seamless and satisfying customer journey.

    Mamoon Fakira - Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations

    Mamoon Fakira, the Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations at Popeyes, focuses on optimizing the performance and efficiency of individual restaurant locations. This leadership role involves setting standards for in-store operations, ensuring exceptional customer service, and driving sales performance at the unit level. Fakira oversees training programs and operational support for store managers, fostering a culture of excellence and adherence to brand standards. The Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations works to enhance the guest experience through efficient service delivery and consistent product quality. By concentrating on the critical aspects of store-level execution, Mamoon Fakira directly impacts customer satisfaction and the overall success of Popeyes' franchise system.

    David Smith - Chief Operating Officer International

    David Smith, the Chief Operating Officer International at Popeyes, directs the operational strategies and expansion efforts across global markets. This executive position involves adapting the Popeyes business model to diverse international landscapes, ensuring consistent brand execution and profitability. Smith oversees franchise operations, supply chain management, and market development outside of domestic territories. The Chief Operating Officer International collaborates with regional leadership to navigate local regulations, consumer preferences, and competitive dynamics. By driving operational excellence in international markets, David Smith plays a crucial role in extending Popeyes' global reach and solidifying its presence as a leading quick-service restaurant brand worldwide.

    Khawar Mian - President

    Khawar Mian, the President at Popeyes, oversees strategic initiatives and drives business growth across key operational segments. This leadership role involves guiding cross-functional teams to achieve corporate objectives and enhance market performance. Mian focuses on fostering strong relationships with franchise partners, ensuring alignment with brand standards and operational excellence. The President is instrumental in identifying new market opportunities and developing strategies to capitalize on them, thereby expanding Popeyes' global footprint. By championing innovation and operational efficiency, Khawar Mian contributes significantly to the sustained success and brand development of Popeyes in competitive culinary landscapes.

    Oswald Bruce - President

    Oswald Bruce, the President at Popeyes, directs strategic planning and operational oversight for significant business divisions. This executive role involves leading teams to execute growth strategies and maintain high standards of brand integrity and customer satisfaction. Bruce focuses on optimizing operational frameworks to ensure efficiency and profitability across various market segments. The President collaborates with stakeholders to drive innovation in product offerings and service delivery, reinforcing Popeyes' competitive advantage. By ensuring robust operational execution and strategic alignment, Oswald Bruce significantly contributes to the expansion and sustained success of the Popeyes brand globally.
    Oswald Bruce

    Layla Gee - President

    Layla Gee, the President at Popeyes, spearheads strategic development and operational management for key business units. This leadership position involves guiding initiatives that enhance brand performance, drive revenue growth, and ensure exceptional customer experiences. Gee focuses on fostering operational excellence and innovation across the organization, aligning departmental efforts with overarching corporate goals. The President plays a vital role in market expansion and strengthening Popeyes' presence in diverse regions. Through strategic leadership and a commitment to quality, Layla Gee ensures the continued success and evolution of Popeyes as a premier fast-food destination.

    Susan Chiang - Chief Marketing Officer

    Susan Chiang, the Chief Marketing Officer at Popeyes, directs all brand marketing initiatives and consumer engagement strategies. This executive position involves developing and executing campaigns that enhance brand visibility, drive customer traffic, and build lasting brand loyalty. Chiang oversees advertising, digital marketing, public relations, and menu innovation from a marketing perspective, ensuring a cohesive brand message across all touchpoints. The Chief Marketing Officer analyzes market trends and consumer behavior to identify new opportunities for growth and product development. By crafting compelling brand narratives and targeted promotions, Susan Chiang strengthens Popeyes' market position and appeals to a broad demographic seeking its unique flavors.

    Khaled Abufardeh - Chief Technology Officer

    Khaled Abufardeh, the Chief Technology Officer at Popeyes, leads the company's technology strategy and digital transformation efforts. This role involves overseeing the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance operational efficiency, improve the customer experience, and support business growth. Abufardeh manages IT infrastructure, data analytics, and digital platforms, ensuring robust and secure systems are in place. The Chief Technology Officer plays a key part in integrating new technologies, such as mobile ordering and loyalty programs, to meet evolving consumer demands. By driving technological advancement, Khaled Abufardeh ensures Popeyes remains at the forefront of digital innovation within the quick-service restaurant industry.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Popeyes Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Popeyes?
    Popeyes is led by D. Colston (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Anjum Aziz (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Jeff Szush (Chief Operating Officer).
    Who is part of Popeyes’s executive team?
    The executive team of Popeyes includes leaders such as D. Colston (Chief Executive Officer), Anjum Aziz (President & Chief Executive Officer), Jeff Szush (Chief Operating Officer) 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 Operating Officer, Head Chief Operating Officer, Store Operations, Chief Operating Officer International.