Starbucks appoints new managing director for UK & Ireland

Kris Engskov will replace Darcy Willson-Rymer, who is stepping down as managing director to pursue another opportunity outside of Starbucks. Engskov has nine of years of experience at Starbucks and worked within the UK operations from 2005. Prior to his current role as regional vice president of the company's US Pacific Northwest region, he also served in senior management positions in both the US and Europe including managing director of Starbucks Coffee Switzerland and Austria. John Culver, president, Starbucks Coffee International, commented on the appointment: "The UK & Ireland present significant opportunities for Starbucks. "Kris brings a great deal of operational and public affairs experience to the role, and is an ideal candidate to continue the momentum Starbucks has achieved in this region. The addition of Kris to the team is a further sign of our commitment to international markets as a key growth engine for the company." Darcy Willson-Rymer has been with Starbucks since 2007. Culver added: "Darcy's passion, commitment and leadership have been a driving force in the UK & Ireland. We are grateful for his contributions to Starbucks and wish him well in his future endeavours." The change will be effective from Mid September 2011.