Vivek Varma

Chief Executive Officer at Emes Project LLC

Vivek Varma is a seasoned executive with extensive experience in corporate leadership, communications, and philanthropy. He currently serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Emes Project LLC, a role he has held since July 2020.1

Career Highlights

Emes Project LLC: Varma joined Emes Project LLC in July 2020 as CEO. This organization was created by Sheri and Howard Schultz to steward their philanthropic efforts, advocacy work, and new business ventures.1 2 In this role, Varma works directly with the Schultz family to increase opportunity and reduce inequality for Americans.2

Starbucks: Prior to his current position, Varma had a distinguished 12-year career at Starbucks:

Chief Transformation Officer (October 2019 - July 2020)
Executive Vice President, Public Affairs (September 2008 - September 2019)

During his tenure at Starbucks, Varma led global teams in communications, community efforts, global responsibility, public policy, and partner engagement.1

Microsoft: Before joining Starbucks, Varma held several roles at Microsoft:

General Manager of Communications (2006 - 2008)
Director of Corporate Communications (2002 - 2006)
Corporate Attorney/Policy Counsel (1996 - 2002)

Education

J.D. from American University Washington College of Law (1990 - 1994)
B.A. in Political Science and Public Policy from Swarthmore College (1984 - 1988)

Additional Roles and Achievements

Vice Chair of the Schultz Family Foundation
Former Executive Director of the Campaign for America Project
Two-time Oklahoma singles state tennis champion
Two-time collegiate All-American in tennis
Member of the 1985 NCAA Division 3 National Team Champion
Inducted into the Swarthmore College Athletic Hall of Fame in 2013
Multiple-time national champion in USTA Men's Senior Tennis Doubles Championships2 3

Varma is known for his strategic counsel, bridge-building abilities, and commitment to creating opportunities for young people facing economic and social challenges.2 3

Experience

Chief Executive Officer at Emes Project LLC (July 2020 - Present)

Chief Transformation Officer at Starbucks (Oct 2019 - July 2020), Executive Vice President, Public Affairs at Starbucks (Sep 2008 - Sep 2019), General Manager of Communications at Microsoft (Jan 2006 - Aug 2008), Director of Corporate Communications at Microsoft (2002 - 2006), Corporate Attorney/Policy Counsel at Microsoft (1996 - 2002)

Education

Swarthmore College, Political Science, Public Policy (1984 - 1988); American University Washington College of Law, J.D. (1990 - 1994); Chickasha High School (1980 - 1984)