Howard Schultz, chairman, president and chief executive officer of Starbucks Coffee Company, first walked into Starbucks in Seattle’s Pike Place Market in 1981. Howard was drawn into conversation with these connoisseurs who took great care in not only finding and roasting the highest quality coffee, but also sharing their passion with others. Drawn to Seattle and its extraordinary coffee culture, Howard moved from his native New York and joined Starbucks in 1982 as director of operations and marketing when Starbucks had four stores.

 

In December 2009, John Culver was appointed president, Starbucks Coffee International. In this role John leads teams responsible for the overall management, business development and operations of Starbucks in all markets outside the U.S. John’s experience and success leading the Asia Pacific region, his deep coffee industry knowledge and his strong leadership skills combine to make him the ideal leader for Starbucks Coffee International.

 

 

Michelle Gass was named president, Seattle’s Best Coffee in September, 2009, further highlighting the importance of the brand within Starbucks Corporation. In this role, Michelle is responsible for all aspects of the Seattle’s Best Coffee business, including global brand strategy, multi-channel growth plans, and existing and future businesses. The business today includes the portfolio of more than 550 specialty coffee cafes across the U.S., the packaged coffee business in grocery and other retail channels, and the Seattle’s Best Coffee foodservice business, which includes alliances with Alaska Airlines, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, and Subway Restaurants, among others. Michelle also oversees Seattle’s Best Coffee’s growing franchising program.

 

 

Annie Young-Scrivner joined Starbucks in September 2009, in the newly created role of chief marketing officer. Annie is responsible for the marketing and product strategy for the Starbucks brand.

 

As chief marketing officer, Annie leads the marketing and category management function for Starbucks. This includes leadership of the beverage, food, coffee and merchandise categories, the pipeline of innovation, and the overall brand, creative, and marketing function.

 

 

 

Troy Alstead was named executive vice president, chief financial officer and chief administrative officer in November 2008. In his position, Alstead is focused on the business and financial strategies, decisions, and execution that will deliver on Starbucks short and long term strategies.

 

As Starbucks executive vice president, Global Supply Chain Operations, Peter D. Gibbons is responsible for all of the products that contribute to the Starbucks Experience – from the coffee in your cup, to the cup itself and the table it rests on – at every Starbucks store around the world.

 

Kalen Holmes joined Starbucks in November 2009 as executive vice president, Partner Resources. She brings a passion for serving the more than 120,000 Starbucks partners (employees) worldwide as leader of Starbucks global human resources organization and strategy. Kalen reports to Howard Schultz, chairman, president and chief executive officer, and is a member of Starbucks senior leadership team.

 

 

 

Stephen Gillett joined Starbucks in May 2008, as senior vice president, chief information officer and general manager of Digital Ventures – a full line of business at Starbucks. Stephen leads Starbucks efforts to use technology to connect with consumers and enhance their experience in our stores.