Starbucks Coffee Company has announced a new leadership structure that positions the company to leverage its assets and operations, and clearly signals its determination to gain maximum benefit from the retail, consumer, mobile and digital shifts currently underway in the global marketplace.
Rapidly evolving retail environment
“These organizational moves map our internal talent to the rapidly evolving retail environment and significant strategic and market opportunities ahead of us,” said Howard Schultz, Starbucks chairman, president and ceo. “Each of these experienced Starbucks leaders will be working closely with the entire senior leadership team, and me, to bring even greater financial and operational discipline to our business around the world. They will partner with me as I focus on Starbucks mission, growth initiatives and the convergence and integration of our retail and e-commerce, digital, card and mobile assets around the world. There has never been a more exciting time to be a Starbucks partner,” Schultz added.
The company announced the following senior leadership changes which are effective on February 3, 2014:
Schultz to Expand Focus on Innovation and Next Generation Retailing and Payments Initiatives
In partnership with Starbucks senior leadership team, including chief digital officer Adam Brotman and chief strategy officer Matt Ryan, Schultz will expand his focus on innovation in coffee, tea and the Starbucks Experience as well as next generation retailing and payments initiatives in the areas of digital, mobile, card, loyalty and e-commerce to position Starbucks for its next wave of global growth. He will also continue to work closely with his Senior Leadership Team to ensure continued disciplined growth and operational excellence around the world.
Troy Alstead Promoted to chief operating officer
Building on his 22 years of experience as a Starbucks partner, Troy Alstead will be promoted to the newly created position of chief operating officer (coo), responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the enterprise. In his new capacity, Alstead will continue to report to Schultz and will be responsible for aligning and prioritizing company investments across business units.
Scott Maw Promoted to executive vice president and chief financial officer
Starbucks senior vice president of Corporate Finance, Scott Maw, will be promoted to executive vice president and chief financial officer. Maw will report to Alstead and have oversight for Starbucks global finance function.
Craig Russell Promoted to executive vice president, Global Coffee
Craig Russell, Starbucks voice and advocate for coffee, will be promoted to executive vice president, Global Coffee. He previously served as senior vice president for the same function which he was appointed to in 2012. Russell will continue to report to Schultz and continue to lead all aspects of the company’s coffee strategy, quality, innovation, purchasing, education and engagement.
