SEATTLE, China – Starbucks Coffee Company has announced the promotion of Molly Liu to executive vice president and co-chief executive officer of Starbucks China, effective October 2, 2023. Liu has served as Starbucks China’s chief operating officer since 2021, and previously served as the company’s vice president of Digital Ventures.
“Molly is a strong leader who has been instrumental in elevating the Starbucks Experience for our Chinese customers and driving industry-leading innovation for our China business,” said Laxman Narasimhan, chief executive officer of Starbucks.
“There remains tremendous opportunity for Starbucks in China, and I’m confident that together, Belinda and Molly, will lead Starbucks through our next chapter, while living our Mission and Values.”
Since joining the company in 2012, Liu has held many leadership roles. As head of the Digital Ventures organization, she set the foundation for the company’s digital flywheel in the market, most notably with the launch of “Starbucks Delivers” and “Starbucks Now” digital ordering services, which grew to contribute 48 percent of China sales in Q3 FY23.
In addition, she established the company’s Starbucks Rewards program and turned it into a leading loyalty program with more than 20 million active members. Recently as coo, she oversaw the company’s accelerated expansion to more store locations, while invigorating coffee beverage innovation with the successful launch of new platforms.
“It’s an honor to lead Starbucks China in this moment as we strengthen our focus on the experiences we create for our partners (employee) and customers,” said Liu. “Belinda and I have worked together for over a decade and I’m excited to be partnering with her in this role as we continue to deepen the moments of human connection with our Chinese customers.”
Belinda Wong will continue to serve as chairwoman and ceo of Starbucks China, as the company aims to operate 9,000 stores across 300 cities by 2025 that will create more than 10,000 additional jobs annually.
A 24-year partner, Wong’s strategic vision, entrepreneurial drive, and deep love for the company and its people has resulted in the company’s unprecedented growth since leading the market in 2011.
