Michael Conway, who was named to Starbucks’ newly created role of CEO, North America in March, has announced his retirement, according to an 8-K filling. Conway was promoted to the position after serving as group president of international and channel development. In that role, he was responsible for leading Starbucks retail growth and operations in 80 markets.
His promotion was one of several leadership changes at the coffee chain that were meant to create a leadership structure with clear geographic locations in mind, “supported by global functions with deep functional expertise and the ability to drive impact on a global scale.”
That new structure, however, was put into place before Starbucks’ named Brian Niccol chief executive officer last month, replacing Laxman Narasimhan after just about a year and a half in the role. His departure likely signals some changes to Niccol’s organizational structure, especially as his new position won’t be replaced.
Sara Trilling, president of Starbucks North America, will now lead retail operations across the region. She has been with the company for 22 years, previously serving as senior vice president of its north division. Trilling joined Starbucks in 2002.
Conway, who has been with Starbucks since 2013, will remain with the company as an executive advisor through the end of November, according to the company.
Contact Alicia Kelso at [email protected]
