The Impulso Podcast

E88: Why Starbucks ousted 3rd chosen successor of Howard Schulz?

11 snips
Aug 21, 2024
Starbucks' leadership shake-up has stirred up discussions about its future. With Brian Niccol stepping in as CEO, listeners explore the historical challenges of leadership succession at the coffee giant. The podcast dives into the competitive landscape in China, especially against rising rival Luckin Coffee. It also tackles the effect of geopolitical issues on sales and brand perception. Expect insights on navigating organizational culture, the struggles of maintaining strategies, and the unique complexities faced by successors of iconic founders.
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ANECDOTE

Howard Schultz's CEO Comebacks

  • Howard Schultz has repeatedly returned as Starbucks CEO to fix leadership and strategy issues.
  • He ousted three handpicked successors due to challenges in following his legacy and strategy.
INSIGHT

Challenges For Handpicked Successors

  • Handpicked successors often struggle due to the founder's lingering influence and loyalty within the organization.
  • Followers tend to maintain the founder’s strategy, leading to limited change and eventual replacement pressures.
INSIGHT

Trust Gap Between Founders and Successors

  • Founders enjoy trust that allows room for mistakes, while successors face scrutiny without that luxury.
  • Lack of established trust hampers a successor's ability to lead and change effectively.
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