Starbucks names Ningyu Chen as interim CTO as Deb Hall Lefevre resigns amid tech transformation

GLOBAL – Starbucks has experienced a key leadership change with Chief Technology Officer Deb Hall Lefevre resigning recently, leaving the role without a permanent successor.

An internal memo from Chief Financial Officer Cathy Smith, reviewed by media, appointed Ningyu Chen as interim CTO during the transition.

Chen previously served as senior vice president of global experience technology at Starbucks. He brings extensive expertise in technology leadership spanning over 20 years in retail and hospitality sectors, with prior roles at major companies like Delta Air Lines and Macy’s.

Chen is recognized for his expertise in scaling AI and data-driven solutions to improve customer experience and operational efficiency.

Under Chen’s interim stewardship, Starbucks will continue prioritizing advancements such as the AI-powered inventory management system deployment across North American stores, aimed at reducing waste and improving stock accuracy by September 2025.

Projects like the AI barista assistant and upgraded point-of-sale system remain top priorities to enhance operational efficiency and order accuracy.

Chen has also championed digital accessibility initiatives within Starbucks, focusing on inclusive customer and partner experiences to ensure technology is usable by all individuals.

His leadership spans creating AI-driven scheduling solutions that balance labor efficiency with staff satisfaction, reflecting Starbucks’ people-first approach.

Deb Hall Lefevre, who joined Starbucks in May 2022 after leading digital transformation at McDonald’s, focused on elevating mobile ordering, drive-thru innovations, and digital engagement.

Her resignation coincides with CEO Brian Niccol’s broad restructuring plan involving workforce reductions and the closure of underperforming stores to streamline costs and improve profitability.

Starbucks is aggressively pushing AI integration into daily operations, including deploying “Green Dot Assist,” a Microsoft Azure OpenAI-powered barista support tool to improve service efficiency slated for fiscal 2026. Chen’s expertise in data analytics and AI adoption is pivotal for advancing these initiatives.

Smith’s memo emphasized that despite leadership changes, Starbucks remains firmly committed to its “Back to Starbucks” strategy, embracing automation and AI as key growth drivers. Chen’s appointment ensures continuity in tech innovation while a search for a permanent CTO continues.

Chen’s appointment reflects Starbucks’ strategic intent to maintain momentum in technological innovation, operational excellence, and customer experience transformation during this leadership transition.

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