Strategy, Growth, and Grit: Kirk Robison on Building a Business Empire
The Big Picture: Kirk Robison, Chairman of Pizza Properties Inc., was invited by Steven Gragg, Assistant Professor of Practice, to his Entrepreneurial Finance class at Hunt Business to share insights from his long and successful career.
Students had the unique opportunity to hear firsthand about the challenges and successes that shaped his career and received signed copies of his book, Texas Son of a Butcher: My Story.
About Kirk Robison: His career began in real estate, where he worked as a broker and later as the national site selection manager for Der Wienerschnitzel. Robison’s expertise in identifying prime locations laid the foundation for his expansion into the restaurant industry.
Over the years, he built a thriving enterprise that includes Peter Piper Pizza, Boss Tenders Dogs & Custard, and Applebee’s franchises.
Why It Matters:
- Real-World Learning: Students gained practical insights into entrepreneurial finance, real estate strategy, and business growth from a seasoned industry leader.
- Networking & Opportunity: Robison’s visit provided a direct connection to the local and national business community, with potential for future mentorship and collaboration.
- Inspiration: His journey demonstrated the importance of persistence, strategic thinking, and adaptability in building a successful business.
Looking Ahead: Robison’s visit highlights the growing connections between Hunt Business and accomplished industry leaders. Engaging with titans like Robison provides students with new perspectives that can shape their career paths.
From Dean Hadjimarcou:
“Kirk Robison’s journey is a masterclass in strategic growth and execution. His insights into real estate and entrepreneurship are invaluable to our students. We appreciate his generosity in sharing his time and expertise. As our real estate program grows, we look forward to more opportunities for him to share his experiences with the next generation of business leaders.”