Starbucks Appoints Brian Niccol as New CEO, Replacing Laxman Narasimhan

Starbucks has announced a leadership change, revealing that Brian Niccol, the current CEO of Chipotle Mexican Grill, will be taking over as chairman and CEO, replacing Laxman Narasimhan. This transition comes less than a year after Narasimhan assumed the role.

Niccol is set to begin his new position on September 9. Until then, Rachel Ruggeri, the chief financial officer, will serve as the interim chief executive, according to a statement from the company.

Niccol joined Chipotle as CEO and director in March 2018 and became Chairman of the Board in March 2020. Prior to his time at Chipotle, he served as the chief executive of Taco Bell, where he held various roles including chief marketing and innovation officer and president.

Before his tenure at Taco Bell, Niccol held leadership positions at Pizza Hut, another division of Yum! Brands, and began his career in brand management at Procter & Gamble.

Expressing his enthusiasm about the new role, Niccol said, “I am excited to join Starbucks and grateful for the opportunity to help steward this incredible company, alongside hundreds of thousands of devoted partners.”

Mellody Hobson, chairperson of Starbucks, also expressed her appreciation, stating, “On behalf of the board, I want to sincerely thank Laxman for his contributions to Starbucks, and his dedication to our people and brand.”