Nadella has been nominated along with Rosalind Brewer and Jørgen Vig Knudstorp.
Starbucks Corporation on Wednesday nominated Microsoft’s Indian American CEO Satya Nadella to its board of directors for his “invaluable insight” in international operations and distribution as the global coffee giant focuses on global growth and innovation.
The 49-year-old Nadella has been nominated along with President and CEO of warehouse chain Sam’s Club Rosalind Brewer and Executive Chairman of the LEGO Brand Group Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, Starbucks announced in a statement.
Each are nominated for election to the Board at the company’s Annual Meeting of Shareholders on March 22, 2017, along with the nomination of the company’s current directors other than Mr. Shennan who is retiring from the Board immediately prior to the meeting.
The Chairman and CEO of Starbucks Howard Schultz described the three as “world-class, value-based leaders” who will strengthen its leadership and add ‘unmatched expertise in technology, strategy, and retail” to the company at a time of unprecedented change of industry.
Nadella will bring “extensive experience” to the Board and also the understanding of how technology will be used and experienced around the world.
“He will provide the Board with invaluable insight in international operations and distribution as Starbucks continues to focus on innovative ways to use technology to elevate the brand and grow its business,” Starbucks’ statement read.
The Hyderabad-born CEO of Microsoft said he is “honored” to have been nominated to join the Starbucks Board.
“As a regular customer myself, I’ve always admired Starbucks focus and deep passion for its customers and the communities it does business in and hope my years of experience in the technology industry will be of value to the company,” he said.