Howard Schultz

Howard Schultz is one of the most successful businesspeople of our time, recognized for his role in turning the now-iconic Starbucks Corporation into the massive and globally renowned business enterprise that it is today.

Born in 1953, Howard Schultz grew up in Brooklyn, New York, as the son of a blue-collar working family. His parents wanted their son to have a better life than they had had, so they encouraged Howard to read extensively and to pursue a college degree. In 1975, Howard earned a degree in communications from Northern Michigan University and went on to pursue a career in sales and marketing.

In 1982, Schultz had the opportunity to join the growing coffee chain Starbucks and he took it without hesitation. Guided by his vision and determination, Schultz quickly grew Starbucks from a small Seattle coffee shop into a large chain with hundreds of locations all across the U.S.

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Schultz implemented several key changes within Starbucks. He pushed the company to open espresso bars and introduce high-quality coffee blends both inside and outside of the store. He also created an atmosphere of excellence, which included high customer service standards and the use of sustainable coffee sourcing and roasting methods. Most notably, Schultz spearheaded Starbucks’ “Starbucks Experience,” which enabled customers to engage with the company in meaningful ways and ultimately created a large, loyal customer base.

In 2000, Schultz chose to move on from his role as Starbucks CEO to pursue his passion for entrepreneurship and philanthropy. For example, Schultz established the Schultz Family Foundation, which provides grants for nonprofit organizations that focus on education and youth empowerment. He has also written two books, Pour Your Heart Into It: How Starbucks Built A Company One Cup At A Time and Onward: How Starbucks Fought For Its Life Without Losing Its Soul.

In Pour Your Heart Into It, Schultz shares the struggles and successes of his entrepreneurial journey within Starbucks. He explains how he faced numerous changes in the company’s executive team, the economy and consumer demand for coffee during his tenure. He also emphasises the importance of listening to your inner voice, staying committed to your vision and building relationships within the organization and the community at large.

In Onward, Schultz takes a more personal view of the Starbucks story and reflects on his own growth as a businessman, leader and communicator. He recounts his successes and failures, advocating that the key to long-term success is to be “in it for the long haul,” learning and growing every step of the way. He also encourages business leaders to make decisions that consider the impact on the world, noting that success is much more than simply making money.

Both books offer readers a unique perspective on entrepreneurship and innovation, while inspiring them to take risks, believe in themselves and ultimately achieve their goals. Howard Schultz’s remarkable achievements within the business world are indicative of his unwavering determination and passion for success. He continues to be a voice for today’s entrepreneurs and leaders and a guiding force for those embarking on their own business adventures.