Brinker International Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Brinker International has 4 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, and legal.

Driven by a commitment to culinary excellence, Brinker International operates and franchises leading casual dining brands, shaping the future of hospitality through innovation and customer-focused experiences.

Leadership Roles at Brinker International

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Kevin Hochman
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Mika Ware
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer & Chief People Officer - Aaron White
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary - Daniel Fuller
  • Kevin Hochman - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Kevin Hochman, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Brinker International, directs the overarching corporate strategy and operational execution across all brands. Overseeing the company's global presence, Hochman ensures alignment with the mission of delivering exceptional dining experiences. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives for Chili's Grill & Bar, Maggiano's Little Italy, and virtual brands like It's Just Wings. By optimizing market penetration and fostering innovation, Kevin Hochman directly impacts the company's financial performance and brand reputation. The Chief Executive Officer's focus extends to enhancing shareholder value and solidifying Brinker International's position as a leader in the casual dining sector. This executive guides the company's long-term vision, ensuring sustainable development and operational excellence across its extensive franchise and company-owned restaurant portfolio.
    Kevin Hochman

    Mika Ware - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Mika Ware, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Brinker International, manages all financial operations and strategic fiscal planning. Overseeing the company's financial health, Ware ensures robust capital allocation and drives profitability across domestic and international markets. This leadership position involves directing accounting, treasury, investor relations, and financial analysis functions. By optimizing financial performance and managing risk, Mika Ware directly contributes to the company's sustained growth and market stability. The Chief Financial Officer's responsibilities include developing financial models that support expansion strategies for Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. Ware also plays a critical part in evaluating new business opportunities and ensuring compliance with all financial regulations, thereby safeguarding the company's assets and enhancing shareholder returns.
    Mika Ware

    Aaron White - Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer & Chief People Officer

    Aaron White, the Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer & Chief People Officer at Brinker International, directs both the operational execution and human capital management strategies. Overseeing day-to-day restaurant operations and workforce development, White ensures seamless service delivery and cultivates a strong organizational culture. This dual leadership role involves optimizing operational efficiency across all Brinker brands, including Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy, while simultaneously championing employee engagement and talent acquisition. By enhancing operational processes and fostering a supportive work environment, Aaron White directly impacts guest satisfaction and team performance. The Chief Operating Officer and Chief People Officer's focus extends to implementing best practices in restaurant management and developing comprehensive HR programs that attract, retain, and develop top talent throughout the organization.
    Daniel Fuller, the Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary at Brinker International, oversees all legal affairs and corporate governance. Directing the company's legal strategy, Fuller ensures compliance with all applicable laws and regulations across its U.S. and international operations. This critical role involves managing litigation, intellectual property, contracts, and corporate compliance matters for brands like Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. By mitigating legal risks and advising on strategic decisions, Daniel Fuller directly supports the company's operational integrity and business objectives. The Chief Legal Officer's responsibilities include advising the Board of Directors and executive leadership on legal implications of business initiatives, safeguarding the company's interests and upholding its ethical standards.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Brinker International Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Brinker International?
    Brinker International is led by Kevin Hochman (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Mika Ware (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Aaron White (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer & Chief People Officer).
    Who is part of Brinker International’s executive team?
    The executive team of Brinker International includes leaders such as Kevin Hochman (President & Chief Executive Officer), Mika Ware (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Aaron White (Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer & Chief People Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Brinker International have?
    Brinker International has 4 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Brinker International’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Brinker International includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer & Chief People Officer, Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary.