Starbucks operates more than 36,000 stores across 84 markets. In EMEA the business operates largely through a licensee model, working with regional partners to deliver the brand’s retail and customer experience standards.
As the organisation continues to develop this operating structure, strong commercial finance leadership is crucial to coordinating planning, performance management, and strategic decision-making across multiple markets and partners.
The Director of Commercial Finance EMEA reports to the CFO EMEA and leads strategic planning, budgeting, forecasting, and performance analysis across both equity-owned and licensee businesses. The role also partners with functions including marketing, supply chain, store development, and technology.
Novo worked with Starbucks’ EMEA finance and talent leadership to define the scope of the role and the leadership profile required. The search focused on senior finance professionals with experience in international retail environments, particularly within franchise or licensee operating models.
Candidates were assessed for their ability to lead commercial finance teams, support cross-functional decision making, and influence senior stakeholders across multiple geographies. Particular emphasis was placed on financial planning and analysis expertise, operational improvement, and experience operating within complex organisational structures.
The search delivered a shortlist of senior international retail finance leaders aligned with the strategic requirements of the EMEA business.
Starbucks appointed a Director of Commercial Finance with experience across large-scale international retail organisations. The successful candidate now leads commercial finance activity across the region and supports financial planning, performance management, and strategic initiatives.
Dale Perrett, Director at Novo Executive Search, said:
“International retail businesses operating through licensee models require strong financial coordination across partners, markets, and operating structures. This appointment strengthens financial leadership within the EMEA organisation and supports the continued development of Starbucks’ regional operating model.”
The appointment strengthens the Starbucks EMEA leadership team as the business continues to expand and develop its licensee-led structure across the region.
About Novo Executive Search
Novo Executive Search is a privately owned executive search firm specialising in board and senior executive appointments across multiple sectors, both nationally and internationally. Novo’s consultants and directors work with organisations to identify and appoint leadership talent aligned with strategy, governance, and long-term organisational objectives.
For media enquiries, contact Dale Perrett, Director, at da**********@******ec.com or 0844 241 2064.
Website: https://novoexec.com
Tama Schewe
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