SEATTLE (Diya TV) — Coffeehouse giant Starbucks Corp (SBUX) has unveiled significant leadership changes aimed at bolstering its global strategy and operational effectiveness, set to take effect on April 1.
In a statement, Starbucks Chief Executive Officer Laxman Narasimhan outlined the company’s commitment to accelerating progress through strategic realignment, emphasizing a balance between geographical focus and functional capabilities.
Michael Conway, a seasoned Starbucks partner since 2013, will step into the newly created role of Chief Executive Officer, North America. Conway’s extensive experience in strategic planning and operational excellence positions him well for this pivotal role, having most recently served as group president, International and Channel Development.
Sara Trilling will maintain her position as executive vice president and president, North America, with a continued focus on enhancing the retail partner experience and expanding the North America store portfolio. Trilling will report to Conway and remain an integral member of Narasimhan’s executive leadership team.
With ambitions to expand its global footprint, Starbucks plans for three out of four new store openings to be outside the U.S., aiming to reach a total of 55,000 stores worldwide.
Brady Brewer has been appointed as Chief Executive Officer, Starbucks International, responsible for overseeing operations across Asia Pacific, EMEA, Japan, and LAC regions. Belinda Wong and Molly Liu will continue their leadership roles as chairwoman and co-CEO of Starbucks China, reporting directly to Narasimhan.
Additionally, Starbucks welcomes Lyne Castonguay as the Executive Vice President and Chief Merchant and Product Officer, tasked with spearheading global product strategy and development initiatives.
Looking ahead, Starbucks intends to appoint a global brand creative leader, underscoring its commitment to fostering human connection and shaping culture through its diverse platforms of collaboration in the creative arts, design, fashion, and music.
Narasimhan expressed confidence in Starbucks’ future, stating, “As we look to the future, the opportunity we have is truly limitless… the best days of Starbucks are ahead of us.”
