Howard Schultz is the founder of Starbucks and has been a key player in turning it into a major coffee brand with more than 28,000 stores around the globe. He has served as CEO multiple times, most recently from June...

Howard Schultz is the founder of Starbucks and has been a key player in turning it into a major coffee brand with more than 28,000 stores around the globe. He has served as CEO multiple times, most recently from June 2021 to September 2023. Schultz is known for his unique leadership style that combines innovation with strategic growth. When he returned as interim CEO in 2022, he took a symbolic salary of just $1, highlighting his commitment to the company over financial gain. In 2021, his compensation was significantly higher at $4.6 million, largely tied to performance targets like revenue growth and profit. Even after stepping down, he continued advising Starbucks, influencing its future direction. Recently, after resigning from all roles in September 2023, Schultz’s legacy remains strong in the company, marking him as a significant figure in the coffee world. He started his journey at Starbucks in 1982 and has influenced its identity and growth for over four decades. Schultz holds a bachelor's degree from Northern Michigan University and has a background in business, retail operations, and marketing, which has shaped his vision for Starbucks.