UK-born, seasoned professional, and Leeds-bound – Mike Hoy’s journey leads him to pioneer Chick-fil-A’s UK debut with a passion for people and community.
When you ask Mike Hoy what excites him most about opening the UK’s first-ever Chick-fil-A in Leeds, he doesn’t start with the food – he starts with the people.
Mike’s story starts in London, where he grew up with a love for sport, community, and good food. After earning a first-class degree from Durham University, Mike took a deep dive into the world of hospitality. His journey has taken him to Switzerland’s busiest Burger King to launching Tim Hortons in Thailand and Scotland, and most recently, serving as a partner at Nando’s UK.
Across every role, one principle has remained constant: “Make every guest and every Team Member feel genuinely valued.”
A taste of what’s to come
During a visit to the United States in 2016, Mike experienced Chick-fil-A for the first time on a friend’s recommendation. He found it wasn’t just his first taste of Chick-fil-A that impressed him, it was the hospitality and quality of service that stood out. Reflecting on that initial visit, Mike recalls the warmth, the service, and the way the team made him feel genuinely welcome. That experience, he says, is what made Chick-fil-A stand out.
That visit inspired him to bring that same Chick-fil-A experience to the UK: to bring a taste of the same quality food and heartfelt hospitality that left such a lasting impression. Mike believes this approach is what truly sets Chick-fil-A apart from other QSRs, and wants every guest that walks through his door to feel genuinely welcome and fulfilled, not just served a meal.
Now, as the first Chick-fil-A Operator in the country, Mike is doing just that – starting in Leeds.
Mike’s passion for serving and creating a warm environment is shaping his approach – “I want my restaurant to feel like a home away from home,” he says. “Somewhere people walk in and instantly feel welcome. If you can create great memories alongside great food – that’s something special.”
Leading with heart
Local Owner-Operators are small, independent business owners who take an active role in the day-to-day running of their restaurants. Responsible for managing the business, hiring Team Members, and all other aspects of business operation, Mike’s leadership is all about creating a vibrant, uplifting atmosphere where great tasting food and friendly hospitality go hand in hand.
He’s determined to set the standard for Chick-fil-A in the UK, leading his team with a genuine passion for people. His goal isn’t just to run a successful restaurant, but to build a place where both Team Members and guests feel seen, supported, and valued every time they visit.
“When my team is smiling, having fun, and feeling part of something meaningful, that energy naturally flows through to every guest who walks through the door.”
Mike is also committed to service beyond the restaurant walls. Currently serving as a volunteer at local food banks, Mike is excited to continue this stewardship as an Operator, inspiring his team to adopt the same service attitude. Mike plans to extend that spirit of service through Chick-fil-A’s Shared Table® food donation programme – ensuring that surplus food from the restaurant supports local people in need.
A new chapter for Leeds
Opening the UK’s first Chick-fil-A is more than just a milestone for Mike, it’s a responsibility.
“It’s an incredible privilege to be the first UK Operator,” he says. “Leeds is such a welcoming city, and I’m excited to build something lasting – something that gives back and serves more than just great-tasting food.”
Chick-fil-A is excited to open its first locally owned and operated restaurant in Leeds, as part of its $100m investment in the UK over the next 10 years.
Chick-fil-A Leeds will open Thursday, 23rd October.
