Longtime Papa Johns Exec Lands New Role

Two established industry leaders are joining the team behind the growing fast-casuals Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop and Wing Zone.

Scott Wessel, who boasts 20 years of experience with roles concerning hospitality technology, has been named chief technology officer for the brands. Most recently, he held the role of senior vice president/chief information officer at MGM Resorts International.

“While well-positioned in the industry, the Capriotti’s and Wing Zone brands are in the infancy of their technological advancement,” says Wessel. “In this role, I’m hoping to create a roadmap from scratch that will guide the adoption of cutting-edge tech and practices capable of keeping the company at the forefront of the QSR sector.”

Meanwhile, Michael Meche, formerly head of franchise operations at Papa Johns, joins as chief restaurant officer for the Capriotti’s and Wing Zone brands. He spent three decades with Papa Johns, spearheading its franchise growth and development. Meche says the new position “was a clear opportunity to have a hand in the success of a franchise that could benefit far more from my experience and input.”

According to the release, Meche and Wessel aim to help Capriotti’s and Wing Zone remain ahead of the competition in regard to automation, guest experience and culinary creativity, among other goals.

Wing Zone, founded in 1993, has more than 31 restaurants in North America and 30 internationally, and will look to reach 250 “profitable restaurants” by the end of 2025. Capriotti’s Sandwich Shop, founded in 1976, has more than 167 locations across the U.S. and will look to grow to over 500 locations by 2025.