photo credit: Ron Adar // Shutterstock

Last year was not too good for Papa John’s from the NFL protests and racial slurs during a media training session.

Papa John’s founder, John Schnatter, stepped down after he caused chaos in the company. To re-brand, the company has brought NBA legend Shaq O’neal onto the board of directors and as an investor.

For those wondering why Shaq, he is personally invested in 9 Papa John’s in Atlanta. He owns a Krispy Kreme, and previously owned 27 Five Guys Burger restaurants. He is also the founder and owner of Big Chicken, a fried chicken joint in Vegas and “Shaquille’s,” a fine dining restaurant in Los Angeles.

“I have truly enjoyed the high-quality Papa John’s product for years and am excited to be able to help Papa John’s raise their game to new heights,” O’Neal said in a press release. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Board and using my experience in business and community to build on the progress being made at Papa John’s…Papa John’s is building a better culture, and I want to be a part of improving the Company from the inside out.”

“In addition to his business acumen, Shaquille understands how to build lasting connections with consumers and energize employees,” said Papa John’s president and CEO Steve Ritchie. “I look forward to working with him as a board member and brand partner to advance the many initiatives we are pursuing across the organization to create even greater success for Papa John’s and our stakeholders.”