Starbucks’ Schultz to remain interim chief until March

Chief executive returned to lead coffee chain for a third time earlier this year

Starbucks is considering only external candidates for its next chief executive, the Wall Street Journal reported. Photograph: David Paul Morris/Bloomberg

Mon Jun 06 2022 - 16:08

Starbucks Corp said on Monday Howard Schultz would remain the coffee chain’s interim chief executive officer until the end of March, as it looks for a permanent successor.

Mr Schultz returned to lead Starbucks for a third time earlier this year, taking over from Kevin Johnson at a crucial time for the company as it deals with rising unionisation of its US workforce.

Starbucks is considering only external candidates for its next chief executive, the Wall Street Journal reported earlier in the day. Schultz cited a need to add fresh talent and skills to its senior leadership ranks, the report said.

The company on Monday reiterated its plans to identify a successor by the autumn, and said Mr Schultz would remain on the board after he steps down as chief executive. – Reuters