Mike Hudspeth

Business Consultant

Mike Hudspeth came to Cathedral with over 30 years of senior and executive leadership in Corporate,
Franchise, Hospitality, and Retail experience. His roles developed keen skills particularly in Operations, Marketing, Business Development, Executive Coaching, and Developing Culture.

Mike strives to be a transformational leader creating value for stakeholders through transformation, culture, and business building expertise. Two principled beliefs that shapes his leadership approach is based on Proverbs 27:17 “As iron sharpens iron, let one sharpen another” and on the belief based on his time in Poland that “Everything is Possible – WJM”!

Mike served as Vice President and Chief Operating Officer/Business Development for Chili’s Global, having been appointed to the position in January 2014. Under Mike’s leadership, Chili’s expanded nearly double-digit unit growth and secured future growth through 2023, keeping Chili’s in a leading growth position. During his tenure he strengthened Chili’s position in global markets with a regional strategy which responded to the consumer and business needs.

Mike previously served as President of Starbucks in Central Europe, leading the brand in Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary. During his tenure he strengthened Starbucks business model, building Board confidence and unlocking European growth. Prior to his post in Europe, he served as Vice President of Operations for AmRest Applebee’s division which operated 103 restaurants in 8 states. Mike’s 15 years with Applebee’s allowed personal growth and career growth, starting as a server and developing to a key leading role for Applebee’s corporation. During his tenure he expanded Applebee’s on the West Coast and Central states, while growing sales and profitability despite the economic hardship in 2008.

Mike has served in several Board positions in each of his previous roles as both member, Vice Chairman, and Chairman. During his time leading Chili’s Global he served as Chairman of the Board for Chili’s Mexico Joint Venture, and successfully translated it into committed growth through 2025. To pursue his passion to strengthen business leaders and further God’s kingdom, he now serves the board for Mercy Today and serves as a Board member for RSA (Reid Saunders Association).

Mike resides in Spokane, WA with his wife Rachel and their son Aaron. He enjoys traveling with his family, competing in Triathlon and Marathon events, snowmobiling, and serving local needs.

Mike completed his Bachelor of Arts degree at Eastern with an emphasis in Marketing, Accounting, and International Business before pursuing an MBA degree.