Michael Killian, Owner/Operator
TWELVE OAKS
Michael grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, with a passion for all things sports, specifically football. His dream was to play for Coach Bobby Bowden at FSU and eventually make his way into the National Football League. He was a team captain and four-year letterman at Furman University in South Carolina, where he received his Bachelor’s degree. An injury prevented this foundational dream from coming to fruition, opening a door for a new dream of entrepreneurship.
Michael and his wife, Carrie, transitioned to Novi, Michigan, in 2020, though Michael is still a fan of all things Georgia – Go Bulldogs, Falcons, and Braves! He and his wife originally met through working at Chick-fil-A, and they both remain very involved at the Novi location. Michael aims to motivate others to believe in themselves and assist in creating opportunities where they can shine. Whether working or at home, he is sure to spend time with his wife and their two children.
Career Highlights
2014
2017
2019
2020
Chick-fil-A Story
As an athlete, Michael has learned to apply drive, focus, and determination to every aspect of his life to achieve his goals. Though entrepreneurship was not part of his original plan, Michael helped a friend start a small restaurant in the Atlanta area. He was later encouraged by an Atlanta Chick-fil-A Owner/Operator, Jamerian Myles, to give Chick-fil-A a try. After much deliberation and opposition, Michael began his Chick-fil-A journey in 2014. He was later selected to be a part of Chick-fil-A Corporate’s Leadership Development Program and remained in that role for over 30 months. In 2019, he was given the opportunity to own and operate the first Greenbriar Mall Chick-fil-A in Atlanta, GA. About a year later, he and his family moved to Novi, Michigan, to assist in opening a brand new free-standing Chick-fil-A as the Owner/Operator. Michael remains an active part of the Novi community, passionate about influencing and developing the future business leaders of America.
Vision and Values
Michael’s mission is to “daily have a commitment to excellence, rooted in the passion to seek knowledge and the freedom to achieve greatness. The lack of knowledge should never be an excuse. Being an agent of positive change is what leads us to excellence and success. Success is not for status or personal gratification, rather success is about the people you attract when you become the leader that you ought to be.”
Here is why the staff recommends you join our team!
Jasmine says, “You’ll make lifelong friends & learn important life skills.”
Ian says, “The pay, great environment, family-like treatment, and great coworkers. Overall, just a great place to work!”
Jalen says, “The flexible schedule and friendly faces to work with!”
Angelique says, “There is so much room to grow as a person, but also within the company! It helps improve social skills & stamina!”
Aaron says, “High-quality company culture”
Destiny says, “Michael and Carrie (Owners) are so sweet and understanding, and because of the relationship between front and back of house.”
Mia says, “We have lots of fun & get free snacks!”
