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Billionaire Profile
Bubba Cathy
Global Rank
#213

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Bubba Cathy

CEO, Chick-fil-A
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$13.2B
As of December 2025
Age
71
Source
Chick-fil-A
Industry
food-beverage
Citizenship
US

Biography

Donald "Bubba" Cathy is an American billionaire and key figure in the success of Chick-fil-A, the renowned fast-food chain. Born on April 22, 1954, he currently serves as the Executive Vice President, Chairman of STC Brands, and Chick-fil-A Ambassador. His career at Chick-fil-A began with managing a Southlake Mall location before graduating from Samford University with a marketing degree. Bubba ascended to Senior Vice President in 1995, contributing significantly to the chain's expansion, and now oversees the Georgia-based Dwarf House and Truett's Grill concepts. With a net worth of $13.2 billion, Bubba Cathy is ranked among the world's wealthiest individuals.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Donald M. "Bubba" Cathy was born on April 22, 1954, as the younger brother of Dan T. Cathy. He grew up immersed in the family business, which began with his father, S. Truett Cathy, who founded the Dwarf Grill in 1946, later renamed Dwarf House. Bubba earned a bachelor's degree in marketing from Samford University.

Rise to Success

Before attending college, Bubba operated the Chick-fil-A in Morrow, Georgia's Southlake Mall. In 1995, he was officially named Senior Vice President of Chick-fil-A, Inc. Today, he serves as Executive Vice President and President of the company's Georgia-based Dwarf House and Truett's Grill restaurant concepts.

Key Business Strategies

Bubba Cathy, along with his brother Dan, has been instrumental in expanding Chick-fil-A. His role includes overseeing STC Brands, which manages Dwarf House and Truett's Grill. The company's success is also due to its customer service, commitment to quality, and values-based approach. Chick-fil-A is known for being closed on Sundays, a practice rooted in the family's Christian faith.

Philanthropy

Through the Chick-fil-A Foundation, the company supports youth education, local development initiatives, and provides scholarships for employees. The company has been refining its charitable strategies to focus on universally accepted causes.

Career Milestones

1976

Managed Southlake Mall Chick-fil-A

Managed the Chick-fil-A location in Morrow, Georgia's Southlake Mall until 1980.

1995

Senior Vice President of Chick-fil-A, Inc.

Officially named Senior Vice President.

2025

Executive Vice President and Chairman

Currently serves as Executive Vice President, Chairman, STC Brands & Chick-fil-A Ambassador.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Education & Community Development

Chick-fil-A Foundation

$XB

Supports youth education and local development initiatives.

Hunger Relief

Shared Table Program

$XB

Donates surplus food to local soup kitchens, shelters, and nonprofits to feed those in need.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Leadership Principles

Faith-based principles

Closing Chick-fil-A locations on Sundays reflects a commitment to prioritizing faith.

Community Engagement

The company supports youth education and local development.

Employee Empowerment

Fostering a workplace culture built on support and empowerment.