Starbucks SVP Michelle Burns: “Why a leader needs to create an environment where people can bring their whole self”

With Akemi Sue Fisher

Create an environment where people can bring their whole self. Early in my career, I thought that work and everything else was meant to be very separate and not connected. It resulted in creating a perception of myself as a cold and distant leader. Over the years I have learned that creating an environment or culture that encourages warmth, belonging and openness can really support great teamwork and deeper, richer and more committed relationships.

As a part of my series about strong female leaders, I had the pleasure of interviewing Michelle Burns, senior vice president, Global Coffee & Tea at Starbucks. Promoted to this role in May 2018, Michelle is responsible for leading all things coffee and tea — both Core and Reserve — including strategy for growing, sourcing, buying, quality, ethical sourcing, sustainment and education. She oversees programs that are grounded in Starbucks heritage…