Leighton Hull is a seasoned entrepreneur and franchise expert whose career spans
multiple industries and markets. His journey began in 1985 with his first McDonald’s
franchise in Los Angeles, marking the start of a diverse and dynamic business portfolio.
Over the years, he has owned and operated Denny’s restaurants in California, Indiana, and
Hawaii, where he was the sole Denny’s franchisee. Hull’s portfolio has also included luxury
home development and a network of Shell Oil stations, convenience stores, and car
washes in Southern California. His latest business expansion includes Bojangles
restaurants in Georgia.
Hull’s career foundation was built in the corporate sector as a marketing executive at
Cummins Engine Company, where he honed his strategic thinking and marketing expertise.
He later advanced to serve as Regional Director at the Indiana Department of Commerce,
where he led business development efforts through the Office of Minority Business
Enterprise—supporting access to capital, technical assistance, and policy advocacy for
minority- and women-owned businesses across the state. As a strategic consultant for
Todd Pacific Shipyard, he was key in developing and implementing a subcontractor supplier
diversity program. Additionally, he has ventured into multi-family property development,
further diversifying his business experience.
Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Hull has made significant contributions through
leadership roles on various boards and advisory committees. His past and current board
memberships include:
• Chairman, Pacific Coast Regional Business Finance
• Vice Chairman of the Board, Denny’s Franchisee AssociationBoard Member, Bojangles Franchisee Association
• Board Member, McDonald’s Operators Association
• Chairman, Marketing Ethnic Sub-Committee, McDonald’s Franchisee Association
• Advisor, Allen Entrepreneurial Institute
• Chairman, The Wharton School/YPO CEO Education Program
• Chairman, Lynwood Entrepreneur Development Academy-Business Institute and
Small Business Incubator
• President, Lynwood Chamber of Commerce

• Board Member, Huntington Memorial Hospital (Pasadena); Member, Finance and Building Committees

• Trustee, Pacific Oaks College • Board Member, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church

• Chairman, Real Estate Development Committee, New Birth Missionary Baptist Church

With decades of experience, Hull is passionate about mentoring entrepreneurs and franchise owners. As a trusted business strategist and advisor, he specializes in strategic growth, operational efficiency, market expansion, and financial optimization. His ability to identify opportunities, streamline operations, and enhance brand presence has helped numerous businesses achieve sustainable growth and profitability.

Hull is an alumnus of Indiana University, The Wharton School, and Harvard Business School. He is an ASA-certified sailor and holds a private pilot’s license.