Popeyes Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

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

Driven by a commitment to culinary excellence, Popeyes delivers high-quality fast-food experiences while maintaining a robust franchise model that supports consistent growth and brand loyalty across diverse global markets.

Leadership Roles at Popeyes

  • Chief Executive Officer - Ibbu Muhammad
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Anjum Aziz
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Joseph Niswonger
  • Chief Financial Officer - Mel Hope
  • Chief Operating Officer - Jeff Szush
  • Chief Operating Officer & Head of Store Operations - Mamoon Fakira
  • Global Chief Operating Officer & Data Office Business Operations Specialist - Airi Ryu
  • President - Tim Berg
  • Chief Marketing Officer - Susan Chiang
  • Chief Technology Officer - Khaled Abufardeh
  • Ibbu Muhammad - Chief Executive Officer

    Ibbu Muhammad, the Chief Executive Officer at Popeyes, directs the overarching corporate strategy and long-term vision for the restaurant chain. Muhammad architects high-level growth initiatives, ensuring the brand maintains a competitive edge within the fast-food sector. By aligning franchise operations with consumer demand, the Chief Executive Officer drives market expansion across North American territories. This leadership role involves constant collaboration with the board to optimize capital allocation and brand positioning. Ibbu Muhammad monitors performance metrics to ensure the organization meets aggressive revenue targets. Through rigorous oversight of the executive team, the Chief Executive Officer fosters a culture of operational excellence. Ultimately, Muhammad secures the financial health of the enterprise by refining the business model to adapt to evolving industry trends and shifting customer preferences in the competitive hospitality landscape.

    Anjum Aziz - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Anjum Aziz, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Popeyes, manages the daily execution of corporate objectives and franchise relations. Aziz architects the operational framework that supports thousands of restaurant locations, ensuring consistency in service and product quality. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives efficiency by streamlining supply chain logistics and vendor partnerships. This leadership role requires balancing immediate operational needs with the strategic goals established by the board. Anjum Aziz oversees the implementation of new menu items and promotional campaigns to boost store-level profitability. By analyzing regional performance data, the President & Chief Executive Officer identifies opportunities for market penetration and operational improvements. Aziz maintains strong relationships with franchise owners to ensure brand standards remain high. Through this focused approach, the President & Chief Executive Officer sustains the company's reputation for quality and reliability in the fast-food industry.

    Joseph Niswonger - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Joseph Niswonger, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Popeyes, leads the organizational transformation and digital integration efforts. Niswonger architects the modernization of the restaurant experience, focusing on enhancing customer engagement through technology and service innovation. The President & Chief Executive Officer drives the adoption of new operational platforms that improve speed of service and order accuracy. This leadership role involves coordinating with cross-functional teams to ensure that technological advancements align with the core mission of the brand. Joseph Niswonger evaluates market data to refine the company's competitive strategy and long-term sustainability. By prioritizing innovation, the President & Chief Executive Officer strengthens the brand's position in the global hospitality market. Niswonger ensures that all strategic initiatives support the overarching goal of delivering superior value to customers and shareholders alike, maintaining the company's status as a leader in the fast-food sector.

    Mel Hope - Chief Financial Officer

    Mel Hope, the Chief Financial Officer at Popeyes, directs the financial planning, reporting, and capital management strategies for the organization. Hope architects the fiscal framework that supports long-term investment and operational expansion. The Chief Financial Officer oversees budgeting, forecasting, and risk management to ensure the company maintains a strong balance sheet. This leadership role involves providing the board with accurate financial insights to guide strategic decision-making. Mel Hope manages relationships with investors and financial institutions to secure the necessary capital for growth initiatives. By analyzing cost structures and revenue streams, the Chief Financial Officer identifies opportunities for margin improvement and financial efficiency. Hope ensures compliance with all regulatory requirements and financial standards. Through this disciplined approach to financial management, the Chief Financial Officer provides the stability required for the company to pursue its mission of delivering quality food to a growing customer base.
    Mel Hope

    Jeff Szush - Chief Operating Officer

    Jeff Szush, the Chief Operating Officer at Popeyes, manages the internal infrastructure and day-to-day efficiency of the restaurant network. Szush architects scalable processes that streamline kitchen operations and service delivery across all franchise locations. The Chief Operating Officer drives the implementation of safety and quality control protocols to ensure consistency in every meal served. This leadership role involves working closely with regional managers to resolve operational bottlenecks and improve store-level performance. Jeff Szush monitors labor productivity and inventory management systems to reduce waste and increase profitability. By focusing on the optimization of internal workflows, the Chief Operating Officer supports the company's growth objectives and operational stability. Szush ensures that all operational policies align with the broader corporate strategy. Through this rigorous management of daily activities, the Chief Operating Officer maintains the high standards of service that define the brand's success in the competitive fast-food industry.

    Mamoon Fakira - Chief Operating Officer & Head of Store Operations

    Mamoon Fakira, the Chief Operating Officer & Head of Store Operations at Popeyes, directs the frontline execution of store-level standards and customer service excellence. Fakira architects training programs that empower restaurant staff to deliver consistent quality and speed. The Chief Operating Officer & Head of Store Operations drives the implementation of operational best practices across the franchise network to ensure a uniform brand experience. This leadership role involves conducting regular site visits and performance audits to maintain high standards of cleanliness and service. Mamoon Fakira manages the relationship between corporate headquarters and individual store managers to ensure alignment on operational goals. By focusing on the human element of the business, the Chief Operating Officer & Head of Store Operations improves employee retention and customer satisfaction. Fakira ensures that every store operates at peak efficiency, directly contributing to the overall success and reputation of the company in the fast-food market.

    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, directs the international operational strategy and data-driven business optimization. Ryu architects the framework for global expansion, ensuring that the brand adapts to diverse market conditions while maintaining core quality standards. The Global Chief Operating Officer & Data Office Business Operations Specialist drives the use of advanced data analytics to refine supply chain logistics and inventory management on a global scale. This leadership role involves coordinating with international partners to ensure operational consistency across borders. Airi Ryu manages the data office to provide actionable insights that improve decision-making and operational efficiency. By leveraging global market trends, the Global Chief Operating Officer & Data Office Business Operations Specialist identifies new growth opportunities and optimizes existing processes. Ryu ensures that the company's global operations remain agile and responsive to the needs of international customers, supporting the brand's long-term success.

    Tim Berg - President

    Tim Berg, the President at Popeyes, directs the strategic execution of business development and organizational growth. Berg architects the partnerships and initiatives that expand the company's footprint in key markets. The President drives the alignment of departmental goals with the overall corporate mission, ensuring that all teams work toward common objectives. This leadership role involves overseeing the development of new business models and revenue streams to ensure long-term sustainability. Tim Berg collaborates with the executive team to refine the company's competitive strategy and market positioning. By focusing on strategic growth, the President identifies and pursues opportunities that enhance the brand's value and reach. Berg ensures that the organization remains focused on its core mission of providing quality food and service. Through this leadership, the President supports the company's ongoing success and its ability to adapt to the changing demands of the fast-food industry.

    Susan Chiang - Chief Marketing Officer

    Susan Chiang, the Chief Marketing Officer at Popeyes, directs all brand development, advertising, and consumer engagement strategies. Chiang architects creative campaigns that highlight the unique culinary offerings of the restaurant chain, driving foot traffic and digital sales. The Chief Marketing Officer oversees the integration of social media and traditional marketing channels to maximize brand visibility. This leadership role involves analyzing consumer behavior to tailor messaging for diverse demographic segments. Susan Chiang collaborates with the operations team to ensure that marketing promises align with the actual in-store experience. By leveraging data-driven insights, the Chief Marketing Officer optimizes promotional spend and enhances customer loyalty programs. Chiang manages the brand's public image and ensures consistent communication across all platforms. Through these efforts, the Chief Marketing Officer strengthens the market presence of the company, ensuring that the brand remains a top choice for consumers seeking high-quality fast-food options.

    Khaled Abufardeh - Chief Technology Officer

    Khaled Abufardeh, the Chief Technology Officer at Popeyes, directs the digital transformation and information technology infrastructure of the company. Abufardeh architects secure and scalable systems that support online ordering, mobile applications, and point-of-sale technology. The Chief Technology Officer drives the integration of data analytics to improve operational decision-making and customer personalization. This leadership role involves overseeing cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive customer and corporate data. Khaled Abufardeh collaborates with other executives to ensure that technology investments directly support the company's business goals. By implementing innovative software solutions, the Chief Technology Officer enhances the efficiency of restaurant operations and the convenience of the customer experience. Abufardeh manages the IT department to ensure high availability and performance of all digital platforms. Through these technological advancements, the Chief Technology Officer enables the company to remain competitive and responsive to the digital-first expectations of modern fast-food consumers.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Popeyes Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Popeyes?
    Popeyes is led by Ibbu Muhammad (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Anjum Aziz (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Joseph Niswonger (President & Chief Executive Officer).
    Who is part of Popeyes’s executive team?
    The executive team of Popeyes includes leaders such as Ibbu Muhammad (Chief Executive Officer), Anjum Aziz (President & Chief Executive Officer), Joseph Niswonger (President & Chief Executive 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, President & Chief Executive Officer, Chief Financial Officer, Chief Operating Officer.