He is joining the company during a time of international expansion for the 2,800-restaurant chain. This year Papa John's projects 80 to 100 foreign openings. The company plans to open 200 restaurants in China, which it entered in October 2003, over the next 10 years. Papa John's currently has about 380 stores abroad and plans to open an additional 495 over the next five years.

Travis also oversaw international growth at Blockbuster. While there, the chain's worldwide revenue grew from $3.9 billion in 1998 to $5.9 billion in 2003. "I believe this position builds on my experience of growing international brands with extensive franchise communities," Travis said in a statement.

Last month Papa John's hired Grant Miller as managing director of its international development. Miller formerly worked as an executive at Allied Domecq QSR, where he oversaw development of the Baskin-Robbins and Dunkin' Donuts internationally.