James Butler

James Butler is senior vice president and chief supply chain officer for Brinker International, Inc., one of the world’s leading casual dining companies and home of Chili’s® Grill & Bar, Maggiano’s Little Italy® and two virtual brands: It’s Just Wings® and Maggiano’s Italian Classics™.

In this role, he oversees all supply chain functions including procurement, food safety and quality assurance, distribution and logistics, brand program management and supply chain systems for Brinker’s corporate-owned restaurants. James also ensures supply chain initiatives are consistent and support Chili’s® Grill & Bar and Maggiano’s Little Italy® brand visions and objectives.

Before joining Brinker, James was senior vice president of supply chain at Restaurant Supply Chain Solutions, LLC (RSCS) – a Yum! Brands Co-Op. While there he led and transformed the supply chain management organization supporting Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurants. Before RSCS, James served as vice president of strategy and integrated business planning at Georgia Pacific and spent several years as a leader and management consultant with Deloitte Consulting, LLC. He has a strong track record of linking operational strategies with commercial objectives to deliver lasting value and inspiring a shared vision that transforms organizations.

Earlier in his career, James held various roles in sales and marketing with AT&T, International Paper and Verizon Wireless. He earned a bachelor’s degree from The University of Kentucky and an MBA from Vanderbilt University Owen Graduate School of Management.

Outside of work, James sits on the alumni boards for his alma maters and serves as a coach and mentor, providing career guidance for young men and women entering college. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with his wife, Catalina, and their three children, Mateo, Mia and Tomas. They love traveling together, especially to South America to visit Catalina’s family. When they’re home, they can be found following their favorite college football and basketball teams or dancing around the living room to their favorite music.

His favorite Chili’s dish? Bacon Rancher, the Classic Sirloin, Fajitas – and sharing a Skillet Chocolate Chip Cookie or a Molten Chocolate Cake with his kids!