Brinker International Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Brinker International has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, operations, legal, and human resources.

Driven by a commitment to culinary excellence, Brinker International operates and franchises leading casual dining brands, focusing on delivering memorable guest experiences and fostering a culture of innovation across its diverse portfolio.

Leadership Roles at Brinker International

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Kevin Hochman
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Joseph Taylor
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Mika Ware
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer & Chief People Officer - Aaron White
  • Chief of Staff & Executive Coach - Tracy Brantley
  • 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 strategy and operational execution for the company's portfolio of casual dining brands, including Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. Overseeing all facets of the business, Hochman ensures alignment with the company's mission to deliver exceptional guest experiences and drive sustainable growth across domestic and international markets. This leadership role involves guiding innovation in menu development, restaurant operations, and franchise relations, directly impacting market share and profitability. By championing a culture of operational excellence and strategic foresight, Kevin Hochman solidifies Brinker International's position as a leader in the hospitality sector, focusing on enhancing brand value and shareholder returns through disciplined execution and forward-thinking initiatives.
    Kevin Hochman

    Joseph Taylor - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Joseph Taylor, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Brinker International, manages the company's financial operations, including accounting, treasury, and investor relations. Overseeing financial planning and analysis, Taylor ensures robust fiscal management and strategic resource allocation to support the company's growth objectives across its restaurant brands. This critical role involves developing financial strategies that enhance profitability, optimize capital structure, and drive shareholder value, directly supporting the operational expansion of Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. By providing insightful financial leadership, Joseph Taylor guides investment decisions and risk management, ensuring the long-term financial health and stability of Brinker International's domestic and international ventures.

    Mika Ware - Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Mika Ware, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Brinker International, directs the financial strategy and oversight for the company's extensive operations. Ware's responsibilities encompass financial planning, analysis, and reporting, ensuring fiscal discipline and strategic investment across Brinker International's portfolio, including Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. This executive function is pivotal in managing capital allocation, optimizing profitability, and enhancing shareholder value through sound financial management. By providing critical financial insights and leadership, Mika Ware supports the company's domestic and international expansion efforts, driving sustainable growth and operational excellence within the competitive casual dining landscape.
    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, spearheads both the operational execution and human capital management for the company's restaurant brands. Overseeing day-to-day operations across Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy, White ensures consistent delivery of exceptional guest experiences and operational efficiency. Simultaneously, this executive leads all human resources functions, focusing on talent acquisition, development, and retention to build a strong, engaged workforce. By integrating operational strategies with people-centric initiatives, Aaron White drives performance improvements, fosters a positive workplace culture, and supports the sustainable growth of Brinker International's domestic and international presence.

    Tracy Brantley - Chief of Staff & Executive Coach

    Tracy Brantley, the Chief of Staff & Executive Coach at Brinker International, provides strategic support to the executive leadership team, facilitating key initiatives and driving operational efficiency. Overseeing special projects and cross-functional collaborations, Brantley ensures seamless execution of strategic priorities across the company's restaurant brands, including Chili's and Maggiano's. This role involves enhancing communication channels, optimizing decision-making processes, and fostering a high-performance culture throughout the organization. By acting as a strategic partner and advisor, Tracy Brantley directly contributes to the effective implementation of Brinker International's business objectives, supporting leadership development and ensuring alignment with the company's mission to deliver outstanding guest experiences.
    Daniel Fuller, the Senior Vice President, Chief Legal Officer and Secretary at Brinker International, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees corporate governance for the company. Managing all legal affairs, Fuller ensures compliance with federal, state, and international regulations impacting Brinker International's operations and franchising activities for brands like Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy. This role is crucial in mitigating legal risks, advising on corporate strategy, and managing litigation. By safeguarding the company's legal interests and upholding ethical standards, Daniel Fuller plays a vital part in supporting Brinker International's business objectives and maintaining its reputation within the hospitality industry.

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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 Joseph Taylor (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and Mika Ware (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial 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), Joseph Taylor (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer), Mika Ware (Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Brinker International have?
    Brinker International has 6 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 Financial Officer, Executive Vice President & Chief Operating Officer & Chief People Officer, Chief of Staff & Executive Coach.