GLENDALE, CALIF. — Dine Brands Global Inc., the parent company of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill & Bar, IHOP and Fuzzy’s Taco Shop restaurants, announced three key leadership changes, effective Jan. 6.

Applebee’s President John Cywinski is leaving the company to serve as chief executive officer at another restaurant company.

“John and I share a love and respect for the DNA of Applebee’s, and we are all grateful for his contributions to this great brand over many years,” said John Peyton, Dine Brands CEO. “Under John’s leadership, Applebee’s has become the vibrant category-leading brand that it is today. John has built a terrific team, delivered unprecedented sales, revitalized marketing and menus, and has strengthened franchisee relationships.”

“It’s been an absolute honor and privilege to serve as president of this very special brand,” Cywinski said. “I’ve truly enjoyed every moment leading this remarkable group of franchise partners and this equally remarkable team over the past six years. I’ll look on with great pride, knowing the brand is stronger than it’s ever been and poised to continue its extraordinary success moving forward.”

Tony Moralejo, current president of international and global development at Dine Brands, has been appointed president at Applebee’s US. Before joining Dine Brands in 2020, he served as executive vice president for international business and global development at Church’s Chicken and its international brand, Texas Chicken. He also worked for Burger King 18 years in various positions.

“I’m confident that Tony and the exceptional franchisees and leadership team at Applebee’s will continue to drive industry-leading growth,” Peyton said.

“Applebee’s is an iconic brand,” Moralejo said. “I’m proud to take on the president role and eager to build on the brand’s great legacy. I’m looking forward to leading Applebee’s through its next chapter and providing guests even more reasons for Eatin’ Good in the Neighborhood.”

Scott Gladstone has been promoted from senior vice president of strategy and innovation to president of international and corporate development. He joined the company in 2016 and previously served as an advisor for Fortune 100 companies at The Boston Consulting Group.

“We have a deep bench of talented leaders at Dine,” Peyton said. “As a result of our succession planning, today’s announcement demonstrates our ability to tap into the great talent of our management team and ensure a smooth and seamless transition. Both Tony and Scott have deep institutional knowledge about Applebee’s, IHOP and the industry, and they are the ideal leaders to take us to the next level of growth.”