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Join us for WBC's Women's Capital Summit
May 21-22, 2025 • New York
The WBC Women’s Capital Summit aims to provide valuable insights into the world of capital, offering a deep understanding of its dynamics, strategic relevance at different stages of a company’s growth, and the effective utilization of capital resources.
CEO, Urban Legacies | Chair of Development Committee
Driving Business Transformation & Global Growth
Michael Norris is a seasoned global business leader known for driving large-scale business transformations, building top-performing teams, and delivering consistent profitable growth. With a career spanning multiple industries and continents, he has led successful business turnarounds and expansions at companies such as Sony Retail Entertainment/Loew’s Cineplex Entertainment, Chili’s Grill & Bar Asia, and General Mills Restaurant Group.
Throughout his career, Michael has been recognized for his entrepreneurial mindset and ability to attract top talent, ensuring organizations execute breakthrough strategies that accelerate growth and maximize profitability.
A Legacy of Leadership & Business Turnarounds
Most recently, Michael held two executive roles at Sodexo, serving as COO of Sodexo’s $10 billion North American business and CEO of its $5 billion Health Care Division. Under his leadership, the company doubled its top-line revenue and tripled bottom-line profits over a decade.
Prior to Sodexo, Michael led the turnaround of Loew’s Cineplex Entertainment/Sony Retail Entertainment, helping steer the financially troubled company toward a $1.4 billion sale to Bain Capital. As Partner and CEO of Chili’s Grill & Bar Asia, he introduced and expanded the brand across the Pacific Rim, successfully leading its international growth.
Board Leadership & Philanthropy
Michael actively advises and supports organizations that drive economic empowerment and education. He serves on the board of Sodexo Magic, a joint venture he co-founded with Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Sodexo, aimed at creating opportunities for diverse businesses and communities. Additionally, he is a board member of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) and has previously served on the boards of Variety the Children’s Charity, the Will Rogers Institute, and the World Affairs Council.
He is also the former President of the National Association of Theatre Owners and a co-author of Advancing a Jobs-Driven Economy, published by STEMconnector.
Education & Personal Commitment
Michael earned an MBA with an emphasis in International Business from the University of East London, U.K.. His lifelong passion for mentorship, business development, and philanthropy continues to shape his work in supporting diverse entrepreneurs, expanding educational access, and fostering economic inclusion.
