Incoming Starbucks China CEO Tsoi led led the coffee chain's efforts to grow to 5,200 stores across more than 200 cities in China | Photo credit: Starbucks

Starbucks has announced the promotion of Leo Tsoi to CEO of Starbucks China, effective October 1, 2021.
 

Serving as Starbucks China COO and President of Starbucks Retail for the last five years, Tsoi led efforts to grow the coffee chain to 5,200 stores across more than 200 cities in China, according to a company press release. 
 

“Leo has relentlessly pushed the envelope on innovation in China where customer loyalty and love for the Starbucks brand is unmatched,” said Kevin Johnson, President and CEO, Starbucks. 
 

“Our strong growth in China is a testimony to our deep bench of talented leaders and their relentless pursuit of further elevating the Starbucks Experience for our customers. I have great confidence in Leo’s ability to continue building the relationships we have with our Chinese customers through our rapidly growing store footprint, market-leading digital ecosystem and customer engagement, and robust innovation pipeline,” added Johnson. 
 

With Tsoi’s promotion, Molly Liu is being appointed the new COO of Starbucks China, whilst Belinda Wong will continue to serve as Chairman of Starbucks China, focusing her attention on the company’s long-term strategy.
 

The appointments are effective October 1, 2021.