Satya Nadella quits Starbucks board after 7 years

Microsoft CEO has confidence in Starbucks fellow Indian American CEO Laxman Narasimhan

Microsoft’s Indian American CEO Satya Nadella has announced his resignation from the Starbucks board of directors, a position he has held since 2017.

The coffee giant confirmed the departure in a regulatory filing, stating that the board’s size would subsequently decrease.

In his resignation letter, Nadella expressed his admiration for Starbucks’ growth and evolution during his tenure. He did not give a reason for his decision but said that he would continue to be one of the company’s biggest fans and cheer it on from the sidelines.

“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,” he wrote. “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,” he wrote “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.”

Nadella also expressed confidence in Starbucks fellow Indian American CEO Laxman Narasimhan and the company’s senior leadership team.

“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,” the letter read.

“While I may be retiring from my role on the board, my belief in Starbucks’ mission and my support for our partners remain steadfast,” Nadella wrote. “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.”

“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.”

The start of Nadella’s role on the Starbucks board coincided with the appointment of his former Microsoft colleague, Kevin Johnson, as Starbucks CEO.

His expertise in technology and international operations was considered a valuable asset to the board at the time.