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Howard Schultz is an American business executive and entrepreneur best known for his role as the former CEO and Chairman of Starbucks Corporation, a global coffeehouse chain and one of the most recognizable brands in the world. Here is some background information on Howard Schultz and his career in business:

Early Life and Education:

• Howard D. Schultz was born on July 19, 1953, in Brooklyn, New York, USA.
• He grew up in a housing complex for low-income families in the Brooklyn neighborhood of Canarsie.
• Schultz attended Canarsie High School and later earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Northern Michigan, where he played football.
• He graduated in 1975 with a bachelor’s degree in Communications.

Career Highlights:

• Howard Schultz has had a notable career in the coffee and retail industry:
  • In 1982, Schultz joined Starbucks, which at the time was a small chain of coffee stores in Seattle, Washington.
  • He was inspired by the coffee culture he observed during a trip to Italy and believed in the potential to create a similar experience in the United States.
  • Schultz convinced Starbucks’ owners to experiment with the concept of espresso beverages, and he later purchased the company in 1987 with the help of investors.
  • Under Schultz’s leadership, Starbucks expanded rapidly, both in the United States and internationally. The company became known for its commitment to providing high-quality coffee and creating a welcoming “third place” for customers.
  • In 1992, Starbucks went public with Schultz as its CEO, and the company grew into a global coffeehouse chain with thousands of locations worldwide.
  • Schultz stepped down as CEO in 2000 but returned to lead Starbucks as CEO from 2008 to 2017 during a period of challenges for the company.
  • He played a pivotal role in Starbucks’ initiatives related to ethical sourcing, social responsibility, and employee benefits, including healthcare and stock options.
  • Schultz has also been involved in other business ventures, including ownership of the Seattle SuperSonics NBA team and investments in digital media and technology companies.

Philanthropy and Initiatives:

• Howard Schultz has been actively engaged in philanthropic efforts and social impact initiatives. Notably, he has been involved in projects aimed at helping veterans and supporting youth employment opportunities.
• He founded the Schultz Family Foundation, which focuses on issues like youth unemployment, veterans’ support, and poverty alleviation.

Political Involvement:

• Schultz explored a potential independent run for the U.S. presidency in 2020 but ultimately decided not to pursue a political campaign.

Net Worth:

• Schultz’s wealth is primarily tied to his investments, Starbucks stock holdings, and his past compensation as the company’s CEO. His net worth has varied over the years.

Howard Schultz is widely recognized for his transformative impact on the coffee industry and for building Starbucks into a global brand. His leadership style and emphasis on corporate social responsibility have made him a prominent figure in the world of business and philanthropy.