Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella stepped down from the Starbucks board this week, according to a regulatory filing Friday by the Seattle-based coffee giant.
In his letter of resignation, Nadella didn’t give a reason for his decision, but expressed confidence in Starbucks CEO Laxman Narasimhan and the company’s senior leadership team.
Howard Schultz, the former Starbucks CEO, made headlines and drew criticism in May for publishing a LinkedIn post after the company missed earnings expectations, calling for “contrition and renewed focus and discipline on the core.”
Nadella joined the Starbucks board in 2017, just as one of his former Microsoft colleagues, Kevin Johnson, was preparing to take over as Starbucks CEO. At the time, the addition of Nadella was seen as a key addition, giving the board new insights not only into technology but also into international operations and distribution.
With his departure, the Starbucks board has 10 members,
Here is Nadella’s resignation letter, addressed to Mellody Hobson, Starbucks board chair, and Jørgen Vig Knudstorp, chair of the board’s Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, as filed by Starbucks with the SEC.
Dear Mellody and Jørgen,
I write to you today with a heart full of mixed emotions as I announce my retirement from the Starbucks Board of Directors effective immediately. It has been a profound privilege and an honor to serve this extraordinary company alongside such dedicated colleagues on the board for the past 7 years!
Throughout my tenure, I have witnessed the remarkable evolution of Starbucks, and I carry with me the pride of our collective achievements. As I step down, I want to express my deepest gratitude for the opportunity to contribute and learn from all the ways Starbucks has grown, changed and continued to thrive.
While I may be retiring from my role on the board, my belief in Starbucks’ mission and my support for our partners remain steadfast. I will continue to be one of the company’s biggest fans, cheering on from the sidelines as you propel Starbucks to even greater heights.
I have the utmost confidence in Laxman and our senior leadership team. Their unwavering commitment and strategic acumen assure me that Starbucks is in capable hands, poised for a future filled with innovation and success.
Thank you once again for the privilege of serving with you. I look forward to watching Starbucks flourish and am excited for the new chapters that await us all.
Warm regards,
Satya
