Dhruv Chandras has joined Starbucks with a focus on AI innovation.

In a LinkedIn post, he said: "After eight fulfilling years at McKinsey & Company, I am excited to share I have joined the Starbucks leadership team as Vice President of AI Transformation."

He added: "I'm very grateful to my colleagues and friends at McKinsey for eight extraordinary years of learning, growth, friendship, and memories - and for shaping me for the better in more ways than I can count. You know who you are, and I will miss you all."

"A big thank you to Starbucks team for the incredibly warm welcome and experience so far, and for entrusting me with such an important mandate. I am honored to join this team and energised to help reimagine the Starbucks of the future with you all."

Chandras concluded: "Few companies get to be part of people’s everyday lives in quite the way Starbucks does. Starbucks has been a part of so many of my (and our) mornings, conversations, pitstops on highways, and everyday rituals. And certainly a life saver ahead of so many critical meetings and those 8 am business school classes. That makes the opportunity to help shape its next chapter feel both incredibly exciting and deeply personal. Excited about this new wonderful chapter. Here’s to new beginnings, lots of learning, and undoubtedly a lot more coffee!"

2026 RTIH Innovation Awards

AI will be a key focus area at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which celebrate global retail technology innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world, have now closed for entries. Our winners will be revealed at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London on Wednesday, 4th November.

Check out our 2026 shortlists and finalists here.

We received a record number of entries this year and many fantastic examples of technology excellence driving transformative change across the global retail sector.

Congratulations to all those who made it through the initial submission process! It’s now over to our star studded judging panel who will decide the winners to be announced at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony, taking place at The HAC in Central London. 

The event will be held on Wednesday, 4th November and consist of a drinks reception, three course meal, awards ceremony presided over by award winning stand-up comedian, presenter, actor and broadcaster, Aurie Styla, and after party until 1am.

Click here to book your place at the 2026 RTIH Innovation Awards Ceremony on Wednesday, 4th November.