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Harper McConnell
Director Global Coffee and Cocoa Sustainability at Starbucks
Professional Background
Harper McConnell is a highly accomplished strategic and operational leader with over 15 years of diverse experience spanning strategy, operations, retail, supply chain management, sustainability, philanthropy, and impact investing. Known for her dynamic team-building skills and ability to lead cross-cultural, international teams, Harper has consistently demonstrated results in her various roles, particularly during her tenure at Starbucks.
As the Director of Global Coffee and Cocoa Sustainability at Starbucks, Harper leads the company's global sustainability initiatives, focusing on coffee and cocoa supply chains. Her efforts in this position are paramount as she manages a remarkable $100 million fund aimed at providing low-interest loans for sustainability investments. Harper's leadership has not only advanced Starbucks' commitment to sustainable practices but has also contributed to the livelihood of countless individuals and communities involved in these vital supply chains.
Throughout her career at Starbucks, Harper held several influential roles, including Director of Global Coffee Strategy and Development, where she played a crucial role in spearheading strategic initiatives for Starbucks' core product—coffee. She was instrumental in driving growth and innovation in both company-owned and licensed markets and spearheaded the development of the first digital coffee training program that reached over 300,000 employees globally. Harper's commitment to strategic innovation is evident through her contributions and collaborative leadership style.
Prior to her advancements at Starbucks, Harper dedicated 10 years to working in Africa, where she successfully invested in and managed nearly 100 grants directed to non-profits and small businesses within the Democratic Republic of Congo. Her philanthropic efforts have significantly impacted many communities while she also constructed supply chains in coffee and cocoa that reached specialty U.S. consumer markets for the first time, seamlessly integrating these products into renowned retail outlets, including Starbucks and Theo Chocolate.
Education and Achievements
Harper's education has laid a strong foundation for her exciting career journey. She pursued a Master’s degree in International Business via an Executive MBA program at Georgetown University, equipping her with critical knowledge and skills needed for success in global business. Before that, she was on the Dean's List at the University of Minnesota, where she studied Political Science and English. This solid educational background has been essential in her ability to combine academic knowledge with practical insights in her professional roles.
Beyond her academic accomplishments, Harper's proven ability to achieve objectives with grace in both crisis situations and during organizational change has been a defining feature of her career. Her fluency in French and Swahili enhances her capability to navigate diverse cultural contexts and foster relationships across different backgrounds, which is pivotal in her various leadership roles.
Notable Achievements
Some of Harper McConnell's noteworthy achievements include:
- Successfully leading Starbucks’ global sustainability commitments around coffee and cocoa supply chains as the Director of Global Coffee and Cocoa Sustainability.
- Managing a $100 million fund designated for sustainability-focused investments, demonstrating her commitment to responsible business practices.
- Directing the first digital coffee training program that has equipped over 300,000 employees with vital knowledge about coffee through Starbucks’ global footprint.
- Facilitating impactful investments that were made in nearly 100 African non-profits and small businesses through collaboration with high-profile philanthropists.
- Constructing robust supply chains for coffee and cocoa that connected specialty products to U.S. consumers; this effort has provided opportunities for unique market access for producers in Africa.
- Co-raising and strategically investing over $20 million in grants aimed at enhancing the efficacy of African non-profits and businesses, which showcases her dedication to philanthropic endeavors.
Overall, Harper is committed to fostering sustainability and driving positive change globally through her influential leadership and unwavering focus on social impact, innovation, and strategic growth.
tags:[
sustainability initiatives
strategic leadership
operations expert
cross-cultural management
impact investing
philanthropy
global supply chains
retail development
coffee industry
cocoa supply chains
TEDx speaker
international business
EMBA education
Dean's List graduate
team-building expertise
change management
multilingual professional
community development
Location
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