Starbucks' North America Head to Retire One Week After New CEO Started

Laxman Narasimhan's First Week as CEO Brings Major Changes

Starbucks' North America head, Rossann Williams, is retiring after 17 years with the company. Williams' retirement comes just one week after Laxman Narasimhan took over as Starbucks' CEO. Narasimhan was previously the CEO of Reckitt Benckiser, a British consumer goods company.

Williams' Legacy at Starbucks

Williams joined Starbucks in 2006 and quickly rose through the ranks. She held various leadership positions, including senior vice president of operations and president of Starbucks Canada. In 2018, she was appointed president of Starbucks North America.

During her time at Starbucks, Williams oversaw the company's expansion in North America. She also led the development of several new initiatives, including the Starbucks Rewards program and the mobile ordering app.

Narasimhan's Plans for Starbucks

Narasimhan has said that he plans to focus on Starbucks' core coffee business while also expanding into new areas. He has also said that he wants to make Starbucks a more sustainable company.

Williams' retirement is a significant change for Starbucks. She was a key member of the company's leadership team and her departure could signal a shift in the company's direction.

What's Next for Starbucks?

It remains to be seen how Narasimhan will lead Starbucks. However, his experience at Reckitt Benckiser suggests that he is focused on growth and innovation.

Starbucks is a global coffeehouse company with over 33,000 stores in 80 countries. The company is headquartered in Seattle, Washington.