Papa Murphy's Names Mark Hutchens C F O

Papa Murphy's International LLC has named former Bloomin' Brands Inc. executive Mark Hutchens chief financial officer of the take-and-bake pizza chain, the company said Tuesday.

Hutchens replaces former CFO Janet Pirus, who left the company in August to pursue other opportunities.

A 25-year industry veteran, Hutchens served most recently as vice president and chief financial officer of the international division of Bloomin' Brands, parent to the Outback Steakhouse chain. Hutchens also served on the boards for Bloomin' Brands' joint venture operations in China and Brazil, and recently led the casual-dining company's efforts to acquire a controlling interest in the Brazil operation.

Before joining Bloomin' Brands, Hutchens served as a finance executive for Office Depot from 2006 to 2012. He worked with the international division for the office supply retailer and served on the board of its joint venture businesses in Mexico and Central America.

Prior experience includes 10 years with Yum! Brands Inc., where he served most recently as assistant treasurer, corporate finance.

Ken Calwell, Papa Murphy's chief executive and president, said, "We are pleased to be able to add someone of Mark's caliber to our senior executive team. He is a seasoned executive who is highly regarded for his business development and financial acumen. Mark has a long history of demonstrated leadership, and we believe that he will be a valuable asset as we continue to grow our first-choice brand."

Vancouver, Wash.-based Papa Murphy's has more than 1,400 franchised and company-owned units in 37 states, Canada and the United Arab Emirates.

The chain has big plans for overseas growth, including the scheduled development of 100 units in the Middle East.

Last year, Papa Murphy's was rumored to be preparing for a possible initial public offering, though the company did not comment on those rumors. Papa Murphy's is owned by New York-based private-equity firm Lee Equity Partners.

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