Joanie Kim

Professional Background

Joanie Kim is a highly respected legal professional with extensive experience in corporate law, business transactions, and licensing. With a remarkable career spanning over several years, Joanie has honed her expertise through various significant roles, most notably at Starbucks Coffee Company. As the current Vice President and Assistant General Counsel for International and Licensing at Starbucks, she plays a critical role in guiding the company through complex legal landscapes and ensuring compliance with international business regulations.

Joanie has previously served in various capacities at Starbucks, including as the Interim Lead for Corporate & Securities, Managing Director of Corporate Counsel specializing in Strategy and Corporate Development, and Director of Expert Counsel for Corporate Development. In these roles, she has been instrumental in shaping the legal strategies that underpin Starbucks’ global presence and corporate growth, demonstrating her sharp legal acumen and strategic insight.

Prior to her impactful tenure at Starbucks, Joanie gained rich experience in the gaming industry while working at Nintendo of America, where she held several positions including Senior Manager and Associate Counsel for Business Transactions. These roles gave her a profound understanding of commercial law in the fast-paced technology sector, which she carried forward into her following endeavors.

In addition to her corporate roles, Joanie spent formative years as a partner at prestigious law firms including Davis Wright Tremaine LLP and Holland & Knight LLP. Her legal foundation at these firms equipped her with a deep understanding of corporate finance, securities, and business transactions, making her a sought-after expert in her field.

Education and Achievements

Joanie Kim is not only accomplished in her career but is also well-educated in the legal domain. She earned her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from Seattle University School of Law, where she developed her legal expertise and sharpened her analytical skills. Her education provided her with a strong foundation in legal principles and practices, which she has applied throughout her career.

Before her law degree, Joanie pursued her Bachelor’s Degree in Business/Corporate Communications at the University of Washington. This background has been immensely beneficial in her legal career, enabling her to communicate effectively and resonate with a variety of stakeholders, whether in a corporate setting or when dealing with external partners and clients.

Joanie’s commitment to her profession is reflected in her various accolades and recognitions throughout her career. She has actively contributed to her fields of expertise and has been involved in numerous training programs, seminars, and workshops aimed at fostering talent and knowledge in legal practices related to corporate communications and international licensing.

Notable Achievements

Throughout her career, Joanie Kim has made several notable achievements that underscore her capabilities as a leader in the legal domain.

1. Strategic Legal Leadership: In her current role at Starbucks, Joanie is responsible for overseeing all international legal matters related to licensing, which includes negotiating complex agreements and ensuring that Starbucks operates within legal frameworks across different jurisdictions.

2. Influence in Business Transactions: Her leadership as Managing Director of Corporate Counsel in Starbucks' Strategy and Corporate Development indicates her integral role in helping Starbucks navigate significant mergers and acquisitions, strategic partnerships, and business development initiatives that have propelled the company's growth.

3. Expertise in Corporate Law: Having served in several key roles focused on corporate development and commercial transactions, she has built a strong reputation among peers for her insights and expertise in corporate law, making her a trusted advisor within the company and beyond.

4. Mentorship and Guidance: Joanie is also known for her dedication to mentoring young legal professionals and sharing knowledge gained from her vast experiences. She has taken an active role in leadership training and often speaks at industry conferences, sharing her insights on corporate law and leadership in the workplace.

5. Contributions to Law Firms: As a partner in well-regarded law firms, Joanie has contributed to the development of legal standards and best practices within her field, advocating for integrity and professionalism among peers.

In summary, Joanie Kim has carved a niche for herself as a prominent legal professional, excelling in corporate law and business transactions across major organizations. With her profound educational background, extensive experience, and a commitment to excellence, Joanie continues to contribute positively to her field, embodying the role of a trailblazer and a mentor for aspiring lawyers and corporate leaders alike.