Message from Brian: Mellody Hobson to retire from Starbucks Board

Partners, 

I’m writing to let you know that Mellody Hobson has informed the company of her intention to retire from the Starbucks Board of Directors.  

Mellody has been a Starbucks board member and a leader of the company for more than 20 years. First recruited to serve on the Board by Howard Schultz in 2005, Mellody has served as vice chair, chair and, most recently, lead independent director.  

Throughout the years, Mellody’s accomplishments have been many and her contributions significant. She has been a respected leader, a mentor to many and a relentless advocate for our company, our coffee and our brand. She’s been a steady hand, a creative problem solver and a decisive leader — helping us navigate challenges like COVID and the global financial crisis. She’s helped chart our path to incredible growth. And she’s championed efforts to ensure we have a positive impact on the communities we serve. 

Mellody embodies the best of Starbucks and lives our mission and values, which isn’t surprising given her role in helping build and shape the company and our culture. 

As I’ve worked with Mellody and talked to others about her work, one thing comes up time and time again. Mellody has been, and continues to be, a passionate supporter of our green apron partners. In everything we do, and in every decision we make, Mellody reminds us of our responsibility and our commitment to create opportunity and bridge to a better future for every partner. She knows that when we take care of our partners, they take care of our customers — and, in-turn, our business. 

On behalf of everybody at Starbucks — and every partner who has gone before — thank you, Mellody, for your leadership, your tremendous care, your passionate support and for being a loyal shareholder. 

Below is Mellody’s letter sharing her thoughts. 

On we go,

Brian Niccol
chairman and chief executive officer