Brian Niccol has served as chairman and chief executive officer of Starbucks Coffee Company since September 2024. A proven leader with a longstanding focus on people, innovation, and operational excellence, Brian has built brands that connect deeply with customers while fostering cultures where teams feel supported and inspired to do their best work.

Prior to joining Starbucks, Brian led Chipotle through a period of significant growth and transformation, serving as Chief Executive Officer beginning in March 2018 and Chairman starting in March 2020. During his tenure, the company more than doubled in size. He helped establish Chipotle as a culinary leader by accelerating digital innovation, expanding the business internationally, and introducing new menu offerings that reinforced the brand’s identity. He also made culture and employee development a central priority, enhancing the experience for people across the company.

Brian brings more than 25 years of leadership, marketing, and operations experience across some of the world’s most respected consumer brands, including Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, and Procter & Gamble. He holds a bachelor’s degree from Miami University in Ohio and an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business.