Howard Schultz

Howard Schultz exemplifies the essence of a self-made success story, a visionary entrepreneur whose dedication, resilience, and strategic mindset have shaped one of the most recognisable brands in the world. As the former CEO of Starbucks, Schultz played a pivotal role in the company’s global expansion, transforming it from a small regional coffee chain into an international powerhouse. More than just a business leader, he is renowned for his commitment to ethical leadership, fostering a company culture that prioritises opportunity, inclusivity, and corporate responsibility. Schultz’s remarkable journey serves as an inspiration to those seeking to achieve success through innovation and integrity, and now, organisations have the opportunity to gain insights from his extraordinary experiences through an influential keynote speech.

Born into a working-class family in New York, Schultz’s early years were shaped by financial hardship, yet his determination saw him become the first in his family to graduate from university. His career began in humble roles, eventually leading him to Starbucks in 1982 as Director of Retail Operations and Marketing. Under his visionary leadership, Starbucks expanded from just 11 stores to over 30,000 locations worldwide, achieving multi-billion dollar revenues and securing a position among Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies in 2018 and 2019. Schultz’s success is not only measured in financial terms but also in his commitment to ethical business practices, ensuring that Starbucks remained a company that values its employees, customers, and communities. His ability to balance profitability with social responsibility has set a benchmark for modern corporate leadership.

Determined to share his knowledge and empower future leaders, Schultz has authored several books, including the New York Times Best Seller, ‘From the Ground Up: A Journey to Reimagine the Promise of America’, which delves into the responsibilities of business leaders in shaping a better society. Beyond the corporate world, he has also used his platform to advocate for social change, championing causes such as fair trade, gun reform, and employment opportunities. His engagement in public discourse highlights his deep-rooted values and dedication to making a difference, proving that leadership extends far beyond financial success—it is about creating lasting, positive impact.

Since stepping down as CEO and Chairman of Starbucks in 2018, Schultz has continued to support emerging entrepreneurs through his venture capital firm, Maveron Capital, and furthered his philanthropic efforts with The Schultz Family Foundation, established in 1996 to help young people, veterans, and disadvantaged individuals access employment opportunities. His transformational leadership and ability to inspire change make him an exceptional choice for organisations seeking a speaker who can motivate teams, drive innovation, and instil a culture of resilience. Whether addressing corporate audiences, leadership conferences, or team-building workshops, Schultz delivers a compelling, insightful, and thought-provoking speech that leaves a lasting impact. Howard Schultz can now be hired via the Inspirational Leadership Speakers Agency.