Michael Killian

Michael Killian is the Owner and Operator of the Chick-fil-A restaurant located at Twelve Oaks in Novi, Michigan. He grew up in Atlanta, Georgia, where he developed a strong passion for sports, particularly football. His aspiration was to play for Coach Bobby Bowden at Florida State University (FSU) and eventually enter the National Football League. However, an injury halted his athletic dreams, leading him to pursue a career in entrepreneurship instead.12

Education and Early Career

Michael attended Furman University in South Carolina, where he was a team captain and earned a Bachelor’s degree. After college, he helped a friend start a small restaurant in Atlanta, which sparked his interest in the food service industry. Encouraged by a Chick-fil-A Owner/Operator, he decided to join Chick-fil-A in 2014.13

Chick-fil-A Journey

Michael's journey with Chick-fil-A began with his participation in the company’s Leadership Development Program, which lasted over 30 months. In 2019, he became the Owner/Operator of the first Chick-fil-A at Greenbriar Mall in Atlanta. A year later, he moved to Novi, Michigan, to open a new freestanding Chick-fil-A location.12

Community Involvement and Leadership Philosophy

Michael is committed to servant leadership and aims to inspire others by creating opportunities for growth and success within his team. He emphasizes the importance of knowledge and positive change as pathways to excellence. Michael and his wife, Carrie, who he met while working at Chick-fil-A, are actively involved in their community and prioritize family time with their two children.123

Personal Interests

Despite living in Michigan, Michael remains a devoted fan of Georgia sports teams, including the Bulldogs, Falcons, and Braves. His personal philosophy centers around motivating others and fostering an environment where individuals can thrive both personally and professionally.12