As part of its “Back to Starbucks” plan the Seattle-based coffee company has updated its retail leadership team and structure, per a letter from CEO Brian Niccol. Mike Grams will join Starbucks as executive vice president, North America chief stores officer, and Meredith Sandland, will become executive vice president, chief store development officer.
In his role as chief stores officer, Grams will assume responsibility for Starbucks retail teams, store performance and more. He joins Starbucks after 30 years with Taco Bell, where Grams most recently served as president and chief operating officer.
As chief store development officer, Sandland assumes responsibility for store development strategy and design. Sandland currently serves as CEO of Empower Delivery and her restaurant industry background includes serving as chief operating officer for Kitchen United, chief development officer for Taco Bell and restaurant industry consulting for Bain & Company,
Related to this reorganization Sara Trilling, president of Starbucks North America, an Arthur Valdez, vice president of supply chain, will leave the company.