Starbucks recently made announcements regarding changes in its executive leadership team. Sara Trilling, the executive vice president and president of Starbucks North America, and Arthur Valdez, the chief of customer solutions and supply chain, will be leaving the company. In their place, Starbucks has hired Mike Grams and Meredith Sandland, who are both Taco Bell veterans. Grams will take on the responsibilities of Trilling as the EVP and North America chief stores officer, while Sandland will serve as the chief store development officer. Additionally, Grams will also oversee the customer solutions division currently managed by Valdez. Starbucks plans to announce a replacement for Valdez’s supply chain responsibilities in March.
These changes come as part of a new corporate structure introduced by Starbucks’ CEO, Brian Niccol. Since Niccol took over as CEO, there have been significant changes in the company’s executive leadership, brand positioning, and overall structure. This includes the expected corporate layoffs in March, as well as other internal changes to support systems and the company’s code of conduct. The departure of longtime board member Mellody Hobson and the reinstatement of the coffee condiments bar and in-store ceramic mugs at the store level are also part of these changes.
The strategic and leadership changes at Starbucks were driven by a brand crisis that unfolded in 2023 and 2024, resulting in a significant decline in North American traffic. Niccol explained that Trilling decided to leave as she did not find either of the new roles suitable for her, while Valdez agreed to depart due to the changes in the scope of his role. Grams, with his extensive experience at Taco Bell and Yum Brands, will be responsible for overseeing retail teams and store performance in North America. Sandland, on the other hand, will lead the development strategy and store design at Starbucks.
The appointment of Taco Bell veterans to lead Starbucks’ North American operations suggests that Niccol may be looking to implement successful strategies from Taco Bell, such as high-powered marketing and technological solutions. Taco Bell has been a consistent winner in the QSR sector, known for its mix of premium and value meals and strong digital presence. Both Grams and Sandland have worked under Niccol during his time as CEO of Taco Bell, indicating a potential alignment in strategies between the two brands.
Trilling will support the transition to the new leadership structure at Starbucks for some time before officially leaving the company. The addition of experienced industry professionals like Grams and Sandland reflects Starbucks’ commitment to reshaping its leadership team and strategic direction for future growth and success.
