LOS ANGELES — California Pizza Kitchen is modernizing its footprint and expanding in international markets. The company announced an aggressive new growth plan led by Giorgio Minardi, newly appointed executive vice president of global development and franchise operations.

Minardi’s first area of focus will be Asia, CPK said. The company sees significant opportunities to expand its presence in Hong Kong, South Korea, Singapore, Japan and Malaysia. Additional areas of focus in 2020 include the Middle East, Australia and Europe.

Minardi brings more than 35 years of global restaurant business experience to CPK He previously was international president at Madrid-based Telepizza Group, where he oversaw an IPO launch and expansion into five new international markets. Before that, he was international president for Dunkin’ Brands. He also was president of Burger King’s UK and Western Europe division. He held several leadership positions at McDonald’s, including international vice president of marketing and senior vice president and chief marketing officer for Greater China.

“CPK is proud to welcome Giorgio to the executive team,” said Jim Hyatt, executive president of California Pizza Kitchen. “We’re confident that his unique blend of marketing, operational and development experience building global brands, including significant on-the-ground experience in Asia, Europe, Middle East and North American markets will be a great asset to CPK as we set out to meet our aggressive international and franchise growth targets for 2020 and beyond.”

CPK currently has 40 international franchise locations in 10 countries.