Brown

NEW ULM – The New Ulm Business Resource and Innovation Center (NUBRIC) announced the hire of new CEO, Steve Brown, effective Sept. 1.

Stephen N. Brown is an executive with extensive experience in the restaurant and construction industries. Currently, he serves as the CEO and Master Franchisee for Carl’s Jr. in Eastern Europe, overseeing 21 restaurants since 2021. He has been the President of Kulau Construction Company since 2006, completing over 200 commercial and residential projects in West Coast and Midwest. As a business consultant, partner, and board member of CaiE Food’s LTD since 2010, he developed the fast-food concept “Steam.”

Brown has held various leadership roles, including Vice President and Managing Partner of Rocky Mountain Restaurant Group, Mountain Wolf Development LLC, RJS Development Corp, and Merrill Financial Corp, managing multiple franchise units across different states. His career also includes significant contributions to Subway in Eastern Europe, where he has been a key figure since 1992, currently overseeing over 400 restaurants. With a background in engineering and finance, Brown has also worked as a troubleshooter and consultant for numerous startups, helping them achieve success.

“As a commissioner for the New Ulm EDA, I am excited for NUBRIC’s future and am confident that this collaboration can be even more successful and positive under Steve’s leadership given his extensive history and experience with business and economic development in many different arenas.” Linsday Henn, MN EIS owner and EDA Commissioner

“I am thrilled to have been chosen as the new CEO of NUBRIC,” Brown said. “I am eager to help this wonderful community realize its vision for a vibrant and engaging economy. Our goal is to attract a talented workforce and good citizens to support both new and existing businesses, while also retaining local talent to build an even greater community.

I am also looking forward to collaborating with City and County government bodies, business and educational leaders, stakeholders, and donors who believe in the immense potential of this area we proudly call home.”

The New Ulm Business Resource and Innovation Center (NUBRIC) is dedicated to fostering economic growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship in New Ulm and the surrounding areas. Through strategic partnerships and a commitment to excellence, NUBRIC supports local businesses and promotes regional economic development.