Allied Domecq PLC (NYSE: AED) announced yesterday that Jon L. Luther, president of Popeyes Chicken and Bisquits, would take the helm of Allied Domecq Quick Service Restaurants (ADQSR).

Popeyes, a division of AFC Enterprises, Inc. (NASDAQ: AFCE), announced Luther’s resignation after serving as president of the chain since 1997.

Frank Belatti, CEO of AFC, said, “John is an exceptional leader and he has built a great team at Popeyes. I know everyone at AFC and our subsidiaries wish Jon continued future success.”

Until a permanent successor is found, AFC President and Chief Operating Officer Dick Holbrook will lead Popeyes.

At ADQSR, Luther is replacing the retiring CEO Jack Shafer who has served 30 years with the company.

Parent company Allied Domecq CEO Philip Bowman said Luther will build on the current multi-branding strategy of the company that operates Dunkin’ Donuts, Baskin Robbins, and Togo’s. “Jon Luther has the skills to build on the substantial contribution that Jack Shafer has made to ADQSR.”

Jon Luther is a 35 year veteran of the foodservice industry. During his tenure as president, Popeyes has grown 67% to 1,672 units. Average annual unit volume has grown to the highest in the chicken segment of the QSR industry.