Leadership Team

Reece Howard

Owner/Operator

I am deeply passionate about my family and my mission here at Chick-fil-A Buda. I met my wife Jordan in Austin during SXSW Fest in 2011, tying the knot in April 2015. Our adorable daughter, Olivia, entered the world in February 2021 during the "Snowpocalypse." Every moment spent with them on this journey is treasured. 

Growing up in a small town near the Houston area shaped my values. Born into a family of 7, I learned early on about hard work and overcoming challenges. Working from a young age instilled the importance of diligence. The influence of my parents, siblings, grandparents, friends, coaches, teachers, and bosses set me on a path to treat everyone with honor and respect, regardless of differences. 

During my time at Baylor University, I discovered my interest in Chick-fil-A. Graduating with a business degree, I joined a Houston Operator immediately. Starting as a team member, handling tasks from scooping fries to running the drive-thru, helped provide valuable insights into the business. Chick-fil-A, I realized, is more than a restaurant; it shapes individuals for the future. 

Now as the Owner & Operator, my passion lies in investing in people, inspired by those who supported me. Many have guided me, and it's my deepest passion to help my team achieve their goals both inside and outside the business. 

Casey Howard 

Executive of Leadership

Growing up, we moved around a lot. My dad was in the military so we lived in eight different states as well as Germany. I have been all over the world, but my favorite place to live was Hawaii. 

I love working at Chick-fil-A because we truly care about our guest and employees. At Chick-fil-A, we focus on personal growth. You can learn leadership skills that help you excel beyond just the food industry. With the skills taught at Chick-fil-A you can pursue any career path you desire.

I'm most excited everyday about getting to interact with our guests. I love the personal connections we are able to build with each guest. Everyday we serve with our hearts and try to make our guests feel welcomed and cared for. My career goal in the short-term is to be a Director with a multi unit Operator. Long-term, I would like to be an Owner/Operator of a Chick-fil-A.

In my free time, I love spending time with my wife and daughter. We love the outdoors. We enjoy fishing, hunting and hiking. One of our favorite Austin hotspots is Barton Springs.

Traci Danmeyer-Rodgers

Executive Assistant  

Hello! I was born and raised in California and come from a military family. I have 3 siblings – an older sister and brother, and a younger sister. My husband, Will, and I met at an ice cream shop in our early 20s and married in summer of 2022. We have a beautiful, funny, and sassy daughter named Noelle as well as a pup named Bella. We were blessed to move to Buda in 2021! 

I have been with Chick-fil-A since September 2015 and love what I do. What I love most about our company and this line of work are the people and relationships made – not only with our team, but also with our guests. I am passionate about helping others to grow and developing them. It brings me joy to be able to serve our team and guests well, and hopefully have a positive impact in their lives.

In my free time, I love to spend time with my family, read, sing, try new recipes and explore. I am a big BTS fan (yes, I am Army!) and hope to attend their concert one day. One of my dreams is to finally earn my Bachelor's Degree - I am currently attending Point University through CFA Buda for Business Administration. I’d also love to run a marathon again and MAYBE qualify for Boston before the age of 35.

Some things I highly value are continuous growth, having a positive mindset, and the golden rule: do unto others as you would have them do unto you. Be kind. Looking forward to serving you in the restaurant!

Kianna Ramos-Rodriguez

Director of Customer Experience

I grew up right here in Buda! I was born in ‘97 at Brackenridge in Austin. I am the oldest of 6 kids. I'm 22 years old and married to my absolute best friend, Josh. We have a sweet baby girl, Zara Grace.  

I joined the Chick-fil-A family because it was just starting up in our little town, and I had heard nothing but good things about the company. I love working for Chick-fil-A because it gives me the opportunity to invest in people’s lives and grow as a leader. The culture of Chick-fil-A Buda is amazing. I think of everyone here as my second family. When coming to work I am always excited about having fun with my team, shooting to hit our next goal.  At work, it brings me joy to see people happy, from guests to team members. Just knowing that you can make a positive impact on someone in such a small way excites me. 

My goal is to be the best mama I can be. That means pushing myself to be the best me I can for my little one in whatever I do, including my career. In the next 5-10 years, I would love to pursue higher-level leadership with Chick-fil-A, but I would also love to have my degree and most importantly, continue to grow my family with my husband. 

In my free time, I love to read. It is an adventure of its own and a great way to grow myself. I also love music. I lead worship at a local church, which has been life-changing for me. You can also catch me on the court, crossing up my husband. 

Timothy Lane

Director of Customer Experience

I was born and raised in Maryland. My favorite places to visit growing up were the Inner Harbor in Baltimore, Ocean City (the only place to get life-changing Salt and Vinegar French Fries), and Washington D.C. - to see its rich history and visit its many museums. 

I've wanted to work with Chick-fil-A since I was very young. To be treated with kindness and respect even though I was a kid left a deep impression on me. Though the work that takes place at Chick-fil-A is very humble and servant-like, when we love others and serve them with care, I feel we are making a deep and lasting impact on our world. 

Seeing my team each day and putting in a hard day's work alongside them energizes and excites me. To feel apart of something bigger than myself, accomplishing rare and difficult tasks each day, and having a blast with others all the while is such a privilege. 

In five years I hope to be either continuing with Chick-fil-A or pursuing a position in full-time vocational ministry. 

In my free time I am an avid rock climber and all-around outdoorsmen. My most recent climbing trip was to Zion National Park and my dream trip is to Big Wall climbing in Yosemite National Park (think Alex Honnold but WITH ROPES).

Megan Ortiz

Director of Talent

I am a Buda local and a Hays High School graduate. I studied at Austin Community College and then finished my degree at The University of Texas, where I majored in Finance with an Accounting minor.

I’ve had the amazing opportunity to continue serving in the community I love while working here at CFA Buda. My ultimate goal is to have a positive impact on people by supporting and helping shape their lives for the better. I would like the opportunity to do this through eventually becoming a Chick-fil-A Operator. Until then, I am eager to continue growing myself and building connections with those around me.

In my free time, I love spending time with my family which usually includes shopping, eating out, or heading to Top Golf, although the majority of my time is spent spoiling my French Bulldog & daughter, Penny Lane <3.

Melissa Rodriguez

Director of  Financial Stewardship 

I was born and raised in Bogota, Colombia, and moved to Austin, TX in 2010 to live out the American dream. We then moved to Florida in 2013 to be closer to our family but moved back to Texas shortly after. I am the youngest of three kids. I am 20 years old and have lived in Buda for the past 6 years. 

I started working at Chick-Fil-A Buda as a young team member learning the basics of what it meant to serve our community. It has given me the opportunity to not only have personal growth but leadership growth. Chick-Fil-A Buda has shaped me into a leader who strives for greatness and is always looking for growth. Everyday I wake up ready and excited to go to work to interact with guests, have fun with my team and to learn something new. 

I plan on continuing to grow myself in leadership with Chick-Fil-A, and get my business degree. I strive to be the best me I can be everyday to make those around me proud, especially my mom. 

In my free time I like to spend time with my family, which includes my brother and his little family. I spend as much time as I can with my niece who is also my little best friend. We like to go on adventures and try new things. It is truly a blessing to have my family as my best friends! 

Jessica Badejo

Director of Sales and Brand Growth

I am the first born to restaurateur immigrant parents. I’m originally from the Dallas-Fort Worth area, born and raised! I graduated from the University of Houston with a Communications Degree in Advertising and married my husband, Sola, in 2021. Shortly thereafter, we moved to Austin.

I joined Chick-fil-A because I wanted to know what the secret sauce to a successful business is. I found out it's the people and I love it! At work, I am most excited about serving our guests with remarkable service while having fun. In five years, I want to be happily leading people and positively influencing lives through impactful opportunities. Long-term, I hope to become an Owner/Operator and create meaningful opportunities through my own store. Also, fun fact: When I graduated college, I wanted to work at the Richard Group, which is the Ad Agency responsible for the Chick-fil-A cows. So it seems all roads were leading me to Chick-fil-A!

Outside of work, my husband and I love traveling and hosting our friends through game nights and cookouts. I also love to cook, bake, and go grocery shopping. Great food is my passion!

Jason Luna

Supervisor

I am currently going to school at Texas State University in San Marcos! I plan to graduate with my Masters in Business Administration. I am 20 years old and can't wait for graduation!

I joined the team at Chick-fil-A Buda because of the opportunity to grow myself as a person both individually and professionally. I love working here because it gives me an opportunity to engage with the people in the community. This team works as a collective to show our guests we care. My goal for the future is to open my own restaurant  and apply my experience here at Chick-fil-A Buda to all my future endeavors. 

I'm beyond excited to continue my growth as a leader!

Misael Vasquez

Supervisor

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Nayeli Rodriguez

Supervisor in Trial

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Magali Rodriguez

Supervisor in Trial

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Dom Miller

Team Leader

I was born and raised in Austin, TX. I moved with my family to Buda in 2011 and have been living here ever since! I get my inspiration to work hard from my parents. They told me I can always try! I am currently in college  hoping to graduate with a degree in Business Administration. 

I've been a team member here since Chick-fil-A Buda grand opened! I joined Chick-fil-A to get more engaged with the whole team and guests. I love working at Chick-fil-A because the experience of working here is amazing. The smiles I see everyday and the fun environment makes me excited to come in to work. It's like my 2nd home! Hospitality is my favorite area of the business because it lets me be able to serve our guests and take care of the team experience. 

Outside of work, I love to travel. I've been pretty much everywhere in South America and have also been to Hawaii. I love being around my friends and family and participating in group activities. 

Brayan Castro

Team Leader

I was born in the country of Mexico. I lived there for about 6 years until I came to the U.S.  My family and I came here for the same reasons others move here - to have a better life and goals. My home is now Austin, Texas - we moved here over 20 years ago from Mexico and have seen the city change so much over the past 10 years. It's a great place to live!

When I first started working at Chick-fil-A, I thought it would be like working at any other workplace. It isn't. I have been with Chick-fil-A for 5 years and have learned so much. The environment is such a great place to be apart of. You’re working with a family that always cares about you. I love being around my team - they bring a smile to my face, especially knowing they support me and will always have my back. Every day our work brings a different challenge to solve, too. These are some reasons why I love working here.

In 5 years, I would love to still be working at Chick-fil-A. I have great leaders/mentors that help each other grow. I’ve learned so much about being a leader in the restaurant. I  want to use what I’ve learned and help grow those around. I also want to learn as much as I can of our leadership roles and what it takes to run a restaurant. I wouldn't mind owning a business of mine in the near future.

In my free time, I enjoy being with my family and dog a lot. I love watching movies and television series - comedy, sci-fi, some horror. I also love watching soccer and basketball and going out to eat with family and friends. I love the Austin community. I’ve met great people while living here - everyone has been very friendly. It’s a growing city for sure!  

Fidelia "Fide" Villegas

Team Leader

Nací y crecí en Guerrero Mexico. Tengo un hijo de 14 años el cual es mi razón de ser. Desde que yegue a Texas siempre quise trabajar para Chick-fil-A y estaba haciendo tramites para agarrar una casa en Kyle y fue emocionante por que fui aceptada con casa y con el nuevo restaurante que hiban abrir en Buda. 

Me encanta mi trabajo el  ambiente y la nueva familia que ahí e encontrado con todo el equipo. Siempre dispuesta a dar lo mejor y aprender cada día seguir creciendo hasta donde Dios lo permita porque los sueños no solo son para los que tienen la capacidad de hacer las cosas, sino para los que quieren hacer las cosas.

En mi tienpo libre me gusta pasar con mi familia visitar a mis sobrinitos o que ellos me visiten. Me encanta pasar tiempo con mi hijo saliendo a comer fuera andar en tiendas Ir al cine. 

I was born and raised in Guerrero Mexico. I have a 14-years-old son who is my reason for being. Since I came to Texas, I have always wanted to work for Chick-fil-A. I was doing paperwork to get a house in Kyle and it was exciting because I was accepted with a house and with the new restaurant that was opening in Buda. 

I love my job, the environment and the new family that I found here with the whole team. I am always willing to give my best and learn every day to continue to grow as far as God allows because dreams are not only for those who have the ability to do things, but for those who want to do things.

In my free time I like to spend with my family, visit my little nephews or have them visit me. I love spending time with my son eating out, shopping, and going to the movies.

Teodora "Doris" Maldonado

Team Leader

Mi nombre es Teodora Romero. Nací y crecí en Guerrero, México. Tengo una hermosa familia que amo mucho. Está formado por mis tres hijos y mi marido. He vivido en Texas desde que llegué a los Estados Unidos y trabajo en Chick-fil-A desde 2011. Empecé a trabajar en Chick-fil-A porque quería ayudar a mi marido con los gastos de la casa y con nuestra educación de los niños. A lo largo de estos años, he trabajado en tres ubicaciones diferentes y estoy en Chick-fil-A Buda desde 2022.

Me encanta trabajar para Chick-fil-A porque la empresa tiene grandes valores y mucho respeto por sus trabajadores y clientes. Lo que me gusta del día a día es la armonía que se crea dentro del equipo. Incluso en los momentos estresantes hacemos el trabajo como equipo y eso nos hace sentir como si fuéramos una segunda familia entre nosotros. Como líder de equipo, quiero seguir preparándome para aprender más sobre la cultura de Chick-fil-A, para poder difundir ese conocimiento a mi equipo y ayudarnos a crecer juntos como uno solo.

En mi tiempo libre me gusta pasar tiempo con mi familia y visitar a mis padres. También me gusta salir a caminar y hacer ejercicio. Los domingos disfruto yendo a la iglesia con mi familia. Lo que más me gusta de Austin es la cantidad de actividades al aire libre y muchos parques que hay disponibles para que disfrutemos.

My name is Teodora Romero. I was born and raised in Guerrero, Mexico. I have a beautiful family that I love so much. It consists of my three kids and husband. I have lived in Texas ever since I came to the United States and I have been with Chick-fil-A since 2011.  I started working at Chick-fil-A because I wanted to help my husband out with the home expenses and with our kids’ education. Throughout these years, I have worked at three different locations, and I have been with Chick-fil-A  Buda since 2022.

I love working for Chick-fil-A because the company has great values and a lot of respect for its workers and customers. What I like about the day to day work at is the harmony that is created within the team. Even on the stressful times we get the job done as a team, and it makes us feel like we are a second family to each other. As a team leader, I want to keep preparing myself to learn more about the Chick-fil-A culture, so that I can spread that knowledge to my team and help us grow together as one.

In my free time, I like to spend time with my family and visit my parents. I also like to go on walks and exercise. On Sundays I enjoy going to church with my family. What I like most about Austin is the amount of outdoor activities and many parks that are available for us to enjoy.

Jose Romero-Zamora

Team Leader

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Jesse Euresti

Team Leader

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Jesus Negrete-Charles

Team Leader

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Luke Kilstrom

Team Leader

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Carlos Hermosillo

Team Leader

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Stacie Martinez

Team Leader

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Julie Ortunio

Team Leader

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Vanessa Hicks

Team Leader

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Monica Coniker

Team Leader

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Gloribel Varela

Team Leader

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Katherine Gil

Team Leader

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