David Novak

David Novak is a distinguished American businessman, author, and leadership expert, best known as the co-founder and former CEO of Yum! Brands, the parent company of KFC, Pizza Hut, and Taco Bell. Born on October 30, 1952, in Beeville, Texas, Novak's early life was marked by frequent relocations due to his father's work as a government surveyor, leading him to live in 32 trailer parks across 23 states by age 12. This nomadic childhood instilled in him adaptability and a deep understanding of people, which later influenced his leadership style .

During his 17-year tenure at Yum! Brands, Novak led the company to significant growth, expanding its global presence and increasing its market capitalization from $4 billion to nearly $32 billion. His leadership philosophy centers on the power of recognition, believing that acknowledging employees' contributions is key to organizational success. This belief is encapsulated in his quote: “Recognition is the most powerful tool a leader can use to inspire others.”

After retiring from Yum! Brands, Novak founded David Novak Leadership, an organization dedicated to developing leaders at every stage of life. He has authored several books on leadership, including "Taking People With You" and "O Great One!", which offer practical insights into motivating teams and fostering a culture of appreciation. Through his work, Novak continues to influence the business world, emphasizing the importance of leadership that values and empowers individuals.