Starbucks' new Chief Sustainability Officer: Marika McCauley
Starbucks, a global leader in the coffee industry, is experiencing a significant change in its sustainability leadership. The esteemed Chief Sustainability Officer, Michael Kobori, has declared his intention to retire by the end of 2024, marking the conclusion of a remarkable five-year tenure.
Following a six-week transitional phase, Marika McCauley Sine will take over the reins. Previously with Mars Inc, McCauley Sine has been instrumental as the Global Vice President of Sustainability since April 2019. She will now be responsible for spearheading Starbucks’ sustainability, social impact, and ESG objectives.
These strategic goals encompass delivering substantial environmental commitments such as certifying over 10,000 'Greener Stores' globally within the upcoming year and achieving a 'resource positive' status by 2030. In her new role, McCauley Sine will report to Michelle Burns, the Executive Vice President of Global Coffee and Sustainability at Starbucks.
“It will be an honour to lead sustainability for such an impactful business and beloved brand, in collaboration with talented partners and community members around the world," said Marika. “I am inspired to help advance Starbucks’ legacy of doing business with humanity and fostering connection, opportunity, and joy through exceptional coffee.
“As I reflect on the 10 wonderful years I’ve spent at Mars, I feel deep gratitude for the varied experiences, extensive learning and close relationships with so many outstanding colleagues.
“I hope that the strong foundations we’ve laid together will enable even greater sustainability success in the years ahead, and will continue to help deliver on the powerful Mars purpose and principles. I will be cheering you all on from afar.”
Marika McCauley Sine's sustainability journey
Described on her LinkedIn profile as a "global sustainability leader with expertise driving business growth while delivering positive societal impact," McCauley Sine's career is both extensive and impactful.
Before joining Starbucks, she was the Chief Sustainability Officer at Mars Petcare where she led global sustainability strategies. Her focus areas included climate action, the development of circular packaging solutions, and promoting sustainable sourcing practices.
Her journey in the sustainability arena started back in 2015 when she joined Mars, after spending a decade at The Coca-Cola Company. There, she engaged in various sustainability roles that added significant value to the company's environmental initiatives.
Prior to her corporate roles, McCauley Sine began her career at Oxfam America, focusing on alleviating poverty in rural communities throughout Southeast Asia—a testament to her long-standing commitment to societal benefits and sustainability.
Her academic credentials are equally impressive, holding a Master's in Public Policy from Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government. McCauley Sine's international experience is vast, having lived in diverse cultural settings such as Hawaii, Cambodia, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, the UK, and Vietnam.
Sustainability at Starbucks is under new leadership
As Starbucks continues to assert its commitment towards comprehensive sustainability goals, the leadership transition represents a critical moment for the company. The appointment of Marika McCauley Sine ensures that Starbucks' future sustainability and social impact initiatives are in capable hands.
With her wealth of experience in the field and a proven track record of integrating sustainability with business growth, McCauley Sine is poised to drive Starbucks toward its goal of having a net positive impact on the planet. This includes not just meeting existing objectives but also setting new benchmarks in the corporate world for environmental and social governance—the crux behind the essential ESG goals.
The upcoming years under McCauley Sine's stewardship are anticipated to be a transformative period for Starbucks, as the company strives to not only lead in the coffee industry but also in its global sustainability efforts.
A fond farewell to Michael Kobori
Michael, who was chosen for Sustainability Magazine’s Lifetime of Achievement in June, wrote on LinkedIn to announce his retirement.
“It is with a heart full of love and gratitude that I embark on my long-planned retirement," he shared. "Five years after becoming Starbucks’ first Chief Sustainability Officer, I will retire effective at the end of 2024.”
Michael also was featured in Sustainability Magazine’s Top 100 CSOs 2023, continued: “I am deeply grateful to my devoted team, our partners around the world and the corporate, civil society and government colleagues who have built Starbucks into a force for sustainability and social justice. A very special thank you to all my friends and former colleagues at Levi Strauss & Co. and the many other companies and organisations who have so generously shared your wisdom, advice and support with me over the years.
“I have had an unbelievably fortunate and privileged career and life. In my wildest dreams, I could not have imagined the incredible experiences I have had with so many of you. I will miss that. And I will miss you. I now go on to my next chapter. I would like to support the next generation of sustainability leaders. But before engaging in any future endeavours, I will take a six-month sabbatical devoted to spiritual, mental and physical well-being for myself and those I love.”
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