Starbucks Names ‘Chief Partner Officer’ Amid Understaffing Allegations

Credit: Starbucks

Starbucks has tapped Lucy Helm, an 18-year veteran with the company, for the role of chief partner officer. Helm had been serving in the role on an interim basis before the announcement.

Starbucks refers to its employees as “partners,” and its partners haven't been happy with staffing at store locations. Baristas say that Starbucks’ chains are understaffed, resulting in a decrease in morale and productivity. Other complaints have centered around limited-time beverages, like the Unicorn Frappuccino, which was in high demand and both time consuming and complicated to make.

In a letter to employees, CEO Kevin Johnson said Helms is "ideal" for the role of chief partner officer.

"During her years at Starbucks, she has held a variety of important positions that have, in sum, given her a comprehensive understanding of Starbucks operations and our unique culture," Johnson said. "As many of you already know, to work with Lucy is to understand her profound passion for partner advocacy."