Salem Rising Star: Matthew Miller of Miller’s BBQ Wins Hearts and “New Business of the Year” Award
From managing logistics and facilities to masterminding a barbecue haven, Matthew Miller, owner of Miller’s BBQ, has transitioned from the corporate sphere to the heart of Salem’s culinary scene. This pivot might seem like a leap to some, but for Miller, it’s a well-calculated stride into a realm where community service and entrepreneurship meld into one.
Recently, Miller’s commitment to the Salem community and the innovative spirit of his business were recognized when Miller’s BBQ received the “New Business of the Year” award at the Salem Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Awards. This accolade is a testament to the profound impact Miller has made on the local landscape in just two short years since the restaurant’s doors opened.
Miller’s professional background includes significant stints as a shipping, receiving, logistics, and material handling supervisor for Viper NW, and as the EHS and Facilities Manager for Carrier Corp. These roles honed his skills in team leadership and operational efficiency—skills that have seamlessly translated into running a bustling restaurant. “The two roles did not directly lead to opening a restaurant, but they did shape my knowledge of leading a team and self-managing my time,” Miller said. “Both of those careers really prepared me for long hours, working hard, and working with people towards a common goal.”
At Miller’s BBQ, the goal extends beyond serving great food; it’s about nourishing a community. Miller’s restaurant has quickly become a hub for community engagement, supporting various local non-profits and initiatives. “I think my biggest accomplishment is that I have been able to support several different non-profit efforts and really help them make a difference in our community,” Miller shared. His dedication to these causes is a significant factor behind the recognition from the Salem Chamber of Commerce.
Personal challenges and deep-rooted values shape Miller’s approach to business. Raised as a foster child, he learned early on the importance of trust and building authentic relationships—a philosophy he carries into every interaction at Miller’s BBQ. “Authentic Relationship Building,” as he calls it, has been pivotal to his success. It’s about fostering connections that are genuine and trustworthy, whether with customers, staff, or community partners.
Guidance from mentors has also played a crucial role in his journey. Key influences include Leon Christensen, a pastor with a knack for business; Tim Davis, a go-to for sage advice; and Tom Hoffert, President of the Salem Chamber of Commerce, who has been instrumental in providing resources for Miller’s burgeoning enterprise.
Looking forward, Miller is ambitious about the future. He plans to expand his business along the I-5 corridor, aiming to “serve Oregon good food” through additional outlets. His long-term vision is to create a legacy of love and service, emphasizing that, “When I die, I want three words on my tombstone: ‘He Loved Well.’”
Miller’s story is not just about barbecued ribs and smoked brisket; it’s about a man who uses his restaurant as a platform for greater good. In a world where businesses are often measured by their profitability, Miller’s BBQ stands out as a testament to what can be achieved when business acumen and heartfelt commitment to community converge.