Redemptive Chick-Fil-A

One of the most well-known fast-food chains on the east coast, Chick-Fil-A is grounded on Christian beliefs. Truitt Cathy’s founder allowed Biblical principles to be the guidelines for running his business. The current CEO, his son Dan Cathy has continued this Biblical foundation. In addition to every location being closed on Sundays, Chick-Fil-A also supports organizations financially that align with their Christian views.
A few years back, the CEO Dan Cathy took a controversial stand against gay marriages. He acknowledged that he believed that marriage should only be between a man and a woman in an interview. Despite attempts by the media, Chick-Fil-A was not charged with any discrimination towards their employees or customers. Dan Cathy unashamedly took a stand for what he believed, without fear of how it might negatively affect his business. He did not let fear of the media or popular opinion overtake his core beliefs and values in the Bible. Dan Cathy excellently demonstrated redemptive entrepreneurship. He demonstrated that his value is in glorifying the kingdom of heaven and not in the social status of his business. I believe that more CEOs should be like Dan Cathy, fearless yet respectful in standing up for what they believe.
A professor once said that a business is only as redemptive as its CEO. The CEO, therefore, has a more significant role than growing and sustaining the company financially. The redemptive capacity of the business rests on them. The spirit and attitude of an entire business reflect the spirit and attitude of its owner. The values and foundational beliefs of a company follow the lead of its CEO. Entrepreneurs and CEOs should follow Dan Cathy’s lead, prioritize their beliefs as the foundation of their business, and fearlessly yet respectfully stand up for those beliefs.