Michelle Chin

Michelle Chin is a dynamic marketing leader with more than 25 years of experience driving growth and transforming some of the world’s most recognized lifestyle brands. Known for revitalizing mature brands, she blends consumer insights, market trends, and bold creativity to deliver strategies that spark relevance while staying true to core brand values.

As Chief Marketing Officer of Applebee’s Neighborhood Grill + Bar, Michelle sets the vision and leads the execution of all marketing for one of America’s most iconic casual dining brands. She leads strategy spanning brand communications, advertising, media, creative, digital engagement, loyalty programs, social platforms, and menu innovation. Guided by data and consumer insights, Michelle champions initiatives that elevate Applebee’s relevance, deepen emotional connections with guests, and drive traffic through bold, compelling storytelling and innovative culinary and beverage offerings. She also partners closely with franchisees as the brand lead on the Franchise Marketing Committee, ensuring alignment and accelerating growth nationwide.

Prior to Applebee’s, Michelle held senior leadership roles at Starbucks, Godiva, Diageo, and Unilever, where she built high-performing teams and delivered award-winning campaigns across marketing, public relations, and product innovation.

Michelle earned her MBA from Cornell University’s S.C. Johnson School of Management and holds a bachelor’s degree in economics and Asian studies from Wellesley College.