Godiva appoints former Starbucks exec as ceo
CEO Mohamed Elsarky stepping down to pursue other projects.
Annie Young-Scrivner, incoming ceo of Godiva. Photo from Starbucks.
Godiva will soon have a new ceo.
Annie Young-Scrivner will take the helm of the global premium chocolate brand Sept. 14, succeeding Mohamed Elsarky, who is stepping down after seven years to pursue other projects, the company said in a news release. Elsarky will continue to work closely with Chairman Murat Ulker and as a member of the Yildiz Holding Leadership Team.
Young-Scrivner joins Godiva from Starbucks, where she served as global cmo, Starbucks Coffee Co. and president, Tazo Tea, as well as president of its Canada business. Young-Scrivner also headed up Teavana Teas as its president.
Ulker said he was “delighted” to announce Young-Scrivner’s appointment to the role.
“She is a highly experienced and talented executive who will play a major role in digitizing the company, globalizing our e-business and improving customer experience in our retail boutiques,” he said.
During her Starbucks tenure, Young-Scrivner developed successful teams, refreshed the brand for innovation and multi-channel growth and drove Starbucks to lead in social media, digital media and loyalty. While Young-Scrivner was president of Teavana, tea became the fastest growing beverage business across the globe.
Previously, Young-Scrivner spent 20 years in senior leadership and general management roles at PepsiCo, and as president and chairman of PepsiCo Food in China, her team delivered double-digit growth.
Young-Scrivner will bring to Godiva her deep understanding of digital connection with consumers, combined with her track record in delivering strong performance and innovation for fast-growth retail brands, the company says. She will lead the continued development of markets including Japan, China and North America, as well as Godiva’s successful Global Travel Retail business.
“It’s a privilege to carry on the entrepreneurial heritage and the passion in creating the ultimate chocolate experience,” Young-Scrivner said. “Godiva has wonderful presence across the globe. I’m excited to work with the talented team to invite even more customers into our delicious world.
Since 2014, Young-Scrivner has served on the board of Macy’s Inc. She is also a member of the Dean’s Board of Advisors for the Foster School of Business, University of Washington, and will be chairman of its Advisory Board for its 2018 session. Young-Scrivner will be based in Godiva’s New York office and will travel across its global footprint.
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