Unlike many Operators, Johnnie entered the Chick-fil-A system as an external candidate. After years of leadership experience in the corporate world, he felt called to pursue restaurant ownership full-time. Leaving Clorox behind, he spent three years intentionally preparing for Chick-fil-A Operator selection through volunteering, gaining restaurant experience, and investing in his own development.
Johnnie was selected as the Owner/Operator of Chick-fil-A Cleveland Avenue, taking ownership of an existing restaurant that had undergone a significant transition before reopening. Rather than simply maintaining the business, he saw tremendous opportunity to build something even greater.
His vision is centered on establishing a strong team, developing leaders, and creating a consistent pipeline of remarkable people who will help the restaurant reach its full potential. Drawing from his extensive operations background, he brings proven systems thinking, leadership development experience, and a long-term mindset to his restaurant.
Johnnie’s vision is simple yet intentional: “Serve with CARE.” CARE is more than a word; it’s an acronym representing a culture where every action is driven by compassion, excellence, and intentionality.
He believes leadership is about investing in people, not simply managing a business. His goal is to mentor future leaders, support young people as they discover their potential, and build a restaurant that becomes deeply connected to its surrounding community.
Johnnie describes Chick-fil-A Cleveland Avenue as a “diamond in the rough” with tremendous untapped potential. His vision is to strengthen community partnerships, expand the restaurant’s local impact, and create meaningful opportunities for both guests and team members.
When building his leadership team, he looks for people who are compassionate, entrepreneurial, willing to challenge the status quo, and committed to helping others grow toward excellence.
