Dr. Michele Rice-Kirkwood has always seen business as more than profit—it’s purpose. A second-generation McDonald’s franchisee, former CEO of Rice Enterprises LLC, and now founder of Resilient By Design, Dr. Rice-Kirkwood has woven service, leadership, and transformation into every chapter of her remarkable journey.
A defining moment in her career came after the sudden loss of her father, when she stepped into the helm of the family business. “Navigating grief while leading a multi-unit operation tested every part of me,” she reflects. “But it also revealed the power of purpose, preparation, and people.” Under her leadership, Rice Enterprises expanded its reach while deepening its impact—mentoring youth, providing scholarships, and employing over 1,000 individuals annually.
Dr. Rice-Kirkwood’s perspective on success has evolved over the years. “Early on, I thought success was scale. Today, I know it’s significance,” she shares. That mindset is the heartbeat of Resilient By Design, her coaching firm that helps entrepreneurs and legacy builders align their businesses with their personal mission. Through strategic guidance and lived experience, she supports clients in navigating growth, burnout, and reinvention.
A core principle driving her journey is community. “I believe leadership is service,” Dr. Rice-Kirkwood says. Her community contributions span nonprofit boards, youth employment programs, and mental health initiatives for Black women through THAW. Her ability to create spaces where people feel seen and supported has earned her a legacy of impact—and loyalty.
When asked what she hopes her story inspires in others, her answer is simple: “That it’s possible to lead with heart, to rise through pain, and to build something that outlives you.”
About Dr. Michele Rice-Kirkwood
Dr. Michele Rice-Kirkwood is a visionary business leader, resilience coach, and social entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience. As former CEO of Rice Enterprises LLC, she led one of the largest minority-owned businesses in Western Pennsylvania. Now the founder of Resilient By Design, she empowers entrepreneurs and family-owned businesses through strategic coaching. A champion of youth mentorship, women’s wellness, and community transformation, Dr. Rice-Kirkwood’s legacy is rooted in service, faith, and lasting impact. She is a proud wife, mother, and grandmother who leads with grace and unwavering purpose.
