Dine Brands Global, Inc.the parent company of iconic brands Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar®, Fuzzy’s Taco Shop®, and IHOP®, has announced a significant leadership transition within its executive team. Tony Moralejo, President of Applebee’s, will step down from his role effective March 4, 2025. However, he will remain with the company in an advisory capacity through June 4, 2025, ensuring a smooth transition. In the interim, John Peyton, CEO of Dine Brands, will assume the responsibilities of Applebee’s President while continuing to fulfill his duties as CEO.
This announcement marks the culmination of Moralejo’s impactful two-year tenure as Applebee’s President, during which he navigated a challenging economic landscape, strengthened franchisee relationships, and led a talented team dedicated to driving the brand forward. His contributions have been instrumental in positioning Applebee’s for future growth, and his leadership has left an indelible mark on the organization.
A Legacy of Leadership: Tony Moralejo’s Impact on Applebee’s
Reflecting on his time at the helm, Tony Moralejo expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead such a storied brand. It has been an absolute honor and privilege to serve as President of this exceptional brand,” said Moralejo. “Leading this remarkable team and working alongside our dedicated franchise partners over the past two years has been an incredible experience.
Moralejo’s tenure was marked by his ability to adapt to evolving market conditions while maintaining a steadfast commitment to Applebee’s core values. Under his leadership, the brand made strides in enhancing operational efficiency, fostering collaboration with franchisees, and laying the groundwork for sustained success. His departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy will continue to influence the brand’s trajectory.
John Peyton Assumes Interim Role with a Clear Vision for Growth
John Peyton, Dine Brands’ CEO, praised Moralejo’s contributions and outlined his vision for the future of Applebee’s. Tony and I share a deep respect for the DNA of Applebee’s, and we are all grateful for his contributions since he took on this role two years ago, said Peyton. He has navigated a challenging economic environment, led an outstanding team, and strengthened our relationships with franchisees. I’m incredibly thankful for his leadership—he embodies what great leadership looks like. I look forward to building on his work and accelerating our plans to grow the brand and achieve superior results.
As Interim President of Applebee’s, Peyton will oversee the brand’s operations, collaborating closely with the executive team and franchisees to capitalize on growth opportunities. Key areas of focus will include enhancing the digital experience, driving menu innovation, improving in-restaurant dining, expanding off-premise offerings, and pursuing domestic expansion. Peyton’s extensive experience in operations, development, and franchisee relations positions him well to guide Applebee’s through this transitional period.
A Proven Track Record of Success: John Peyton’s Leadership
John Peyton brings a wealth of experience to his expanded role. Joining Dine Brands in January 2021 as CEO, Peyton has demonstrated a keen ability to lead large, complex organizations and drive growth at scale. Prior to his tenure at Dine Brands, he served as President and CEO of Realogy Franchise Group, where he oversaw a portfolio of leading real estate brands. Before that, Peyton spent 17 years as a senior executive at Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide, Inc., where he honed his expertise in global branding, operational excellence, and franchisee relations.
Peyton’s leadership style is characterized by a commitment to innovation, operational flexibility, and collaboration. His ability to balance strategic vision with practical execution has earned him recognition as a leader in the hospitality industry. As he steps into the interim role of Applebee’s President, Peyton is poised to build on Moralejo’s foundation and accelerate the brand’s growth initiatives.
Searching for a New Leader to Drive Applebee’s Future
In parallel with Peyton’s interim leadership, Dine Brands has initiated a nationwide search for a permanent successor to lead Applebee’s. The ideal candidate will possess proven expertise in brand stewardship, restaurant operations, and marketing, with a track record of driving results in competitive markets. This search underscores Dine Brands’ commitment to ensuring continuity and positioning Applebee’s for long-term success.
The new leader will inherit a brand with immense potential, supported by a strong foundation of franchisee partnerships, loyal customers, and a clear strategic roadmap. By focusing on key growth areas such as digital transformation, menu innovation, and geographic expansion, Applebee’s is well-positioned to thrive in an increasingly dynamic restaurant landscape.
About Dine Brands Global, Inc.
Headquartered in Pasadena, California, Dine Brands Global, Inc. (NYSE: DIN) is one of the largest full-service restaurant companies in the world. Through its subsidiaries, the company franchises restaurants under the Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar®, IHOP®, and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop® brands. As of September 30, 2024, these three brands collectively operated over 3,500 restaurants across 19 international markets.
In 2022, Dine Brands expanded its presence into the Fast Casual segment, further diversifying its portfolio and strengthening its position in the global dining industry. The company’s commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and franchisee collaboration has enabled it to remain a leader in the ever-evolving restaurant sector.
