Brian Niccol

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  • Company/Affiliation
    Starbucks
  • Title
    CEO and Chairman
  • Country/Territory
    U.S.
  • Years on List
    2024, 2025

Brian Niccol made waves last year when he left Chipotle to take the helm at Starbucks, earning around $96 million in his first few months on the job. To try to reinvigorate the struggling coffee purveyor, Niccol launched a “Back to Starbucks” plan, which focuses on a streamlined menu, faster service, and making the chain’s cafés more inviting. However, the going is tough; comparable sales in North America have continued to decline under Niccol’s leadership.