BRIAN NICCOL has served as chairman of the board and chief executive officer of Starbucks since September 2024. Mr. Niccol joined Starbucks after leading Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (“Chipotle”) through a period of growth and transformation. He served as a director and as Chipotle’s Chief Executive Officer from 2018 until 2024 and assumed the role of Chairman in March 2020. During that time, he more than doubled the business by establishing Chipotle as a culinary leader, pioneering digital innovation, introducing exciting new menu offerings, and expanding internationally. He also helped improve the experience of Chipotle’s people by focusing on strengthening culture and development. Before joining Chipotle, Mr. Niccol served as Chief Executive Officer of Taco Bell, a division of Yum! Brands, Inc., from 2015 to 2018, after having served as Taco Bell’s President from 2013 to 2014 and Chief Marketing and Innovation Officer from 2011 to 2012. Mr. Niccol also served in leadership roles at Pizza Hut, another division of Yum! Brands, from 2005 to 2011. He began his career in brand management at Procter and Gamble.
Mr. Niccol is a proven leader with a record of delighting customers, driving innovation, building culturally relevant brands, and ensuring operational excellence. He’s recognized for his focus on people and for nurturing strong and creative company cultures. He brings to the Company and board more than 25 years in leadership, marketing, and operations roles for some of the world’s most respected brands.