Starbucks is now working with ex-McDonald’s executive Deb Hall Lefevre to oversee its technology, with Reuters writing Friday (April 22) that this would help CEO Howard Schultz look into changes to drive-thru, mobile orders and other things.
Lefevre will become Starbucks’ chief technology officer (CTO) as of May 2, taking over for Hans Melotte, who was the interim CTO for the last five months.
Per the report, changes will likely include increased mobile app personalization, employee training improvements and scheduling and equipment maintenance to give baristas more time to spend with customers.
By hiring a CTO who has worked in restaurants and retail, the company hopes to make sure digital transactions can run more smoothly. That had become more important during the pandemic as there has been more focus on mobile apps and digital pay.
According to Chas Hermann, a consultant and former vice president of marketing at Starbucks, Schultz wants to hire someone “that can really…