Michael Chachula spearheads the development, planning, and implementation of Propelled Brands’ IT strategy to elevate business objectives, maximize return on investment and ensure security. He formerly served as the Chief Information Officer at FAT Brands, where he spearheaded the strategic development and implementation of cutting-edge, scalable, and sustainable technology platforms tailored specifically for the company’s expansive portfolio and franchise system. FAT Brands is a multi-brand franchise platform company (as is Propelled Brands) with 16 Brands: Fatburger, Round Table Pizza, Marble Slab Creamery, Johnny Rockets, Hurricane Grill & Wings, Great American Cookies, Ponderosa and Bonanza Steakhouses, Buffalo's Cafe, Elevation Burger, Hot Dog on a Stick, Twin Peaks, Pretzelmaker, Yalla Mediterranean, Native Grill & Wings, and Smokey Bones. As CIO, Michael was focused on Security, Salesforce implementation, Point of Sale, Payments, PCI Compliance and Revenue Creation. With over 25 years of distinguished experience in senior management, Michael is a visionary leader who held numerous pivotal positions in the business and technology sectors, spanning financial services, consumer goods, franchising, pharmaceuticals, and the hospitality industry.
Before joining FAT Brands, Michael excelled as the Head of Digital and Revenue Growth for the franchisor, The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf®, where he successfully orchestrated the delivery of an enterprise-grade Point of Sale (POS) system, alongside innovations in Customer Relationship Management (CRM), marketing automation, and cross-channel/omni-channel growth strategies for the brand and its franchise network. His pragmatic approach and forward-thinking solutions set a new benchmark in the industry.
Michael's excellence in leadership also extended to his role as Head of Technology and Executive Director of the franchisor IHOP® Restaurants under Dine Brands Global Inc., where he executed transformative technology initiatives including security, payment, POS updates that elevated operational efficiency, and customer engagement across the board.
Michael is an alumnus of DePaul University, holding a bachelor’s degree, and he further enhanced his strategic acumen with an MBA from the Northwestern University–Kellogg School of Management. His educational background and industry credentials underscored his commitment to driving technological innovation and strategic growth at FAT Brands.
