After losing his job in pharmaceutical sales, Branden began exploring franchise ownership. He spent several months shadowing a successful restaurant franchisee, confirming his passion for the restaurant business. Chick-fil-A stood out because its culture, values, people, and processes aligned with the kind of leader he wanted to become.
His first application to become an Owner/Operator was unsuccessful because he lacked restaurant experience. Rather than giving up, Branden went to work for Chick-fil-A Owner/Operator Matt Michaels, learning the business from the ground up and eventually helping run two restaurants. After interviewing for seven Operator opportunities, he was selected for Chick-fil-A Wesley Chapel Road in Atlanta.
After three years in Atlanta, Branden and Tia returned home to Houston so their daughters could grow up near family. He became Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A Westheimer & Fondren, where he has now served for more than a decade.
Branden’s vision is to create “a genuine place of care and connection for our team members and our guests.” To him, connection is built through trust; giving people your time, talent, and attention and creating an environment where they know they matter.
That philosophy begins with his team. Branden describes the restaurant as a “launch pad” where every Team Member should be growing toward something. Whether their future is with Chick-fil-A or elsewhere, his goal is to help them develop professionally and personally.
That commitment includes educational opportunities through Point University, leadership and professional development, and resources supporting physical and mental well-being. Branden believes that when Team Members are cared for first, that care naturally extends to guests.
His investment reaches beyond the restaurant as well. Throughout his career, Branden has mentored young people and partnered with local schools to develop future leaders. Following Hurricane Harvey, he also joined other Houston-area Operators to provide nearly 5,000 meals to first responders and volunteers.
