Last updated on August 30th, 2024 at 03:44 pm
Starbucks announced the sudden replacement of its Indian-origin CEO, Laxman Narasimhan, with Brian Niccol, the chief executive of Chipotle. Narasimhan, who took over in March 2023, has stepped down from his role as a member of the Starbucks board “with immediate effect.”
A Career at the Top
Laxman Narasimhan, a veteran of PepsiCo and other consumer brands, was highly regarded for driving innovation in Starbucks’ supply chains and enhancing store operations. His departure has sparked speculation, particularly due to a quote from a recent interview where he emphasized work-life balance, stating he “seldom” worked past 6 pm.
Speculations Surrounding Narasimhan’s Exit
Narasimhan’s comments about work-life balance have gone viral on social media, leading to widespread speculation that his emphasis on family time may have influenced his departure. However, Starbucks has not provided specific reasons for the leadership change.
Brian Niccol: Starbucks’ Statement on Leadership Change
In an official statement, Starbucks praised Narasimhan’s contributions during his brief tenure, noting his focus on improving business operations amidst challenging times. The board expressed their gratitude and wished him success in his future endeavors, while warmly welcoming Brian Niccol to the role.
