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This episode features an interview with Mary Egan, who now heads up the global strategy function for Starbucks. I was interested to hear that Mary began her career not in a cubicle but in a classroom, as a middle school teacher in New York City. I wanted to learn what prompted Mary to switch from education to business, and I thought it would be interesting to capture this conversation alongside another interview I’ve arranged—with an investment banker who’s gone the other direction, leaving the world of finance to become a high school teacher.
About Mary Egan: Mary Egan joined Starbucks in 2010 as Senior Vice President, Global Strategy. Prior to joining Starbucks, she was a partner with the Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where she was responsible for a wide range of consumer sector client projects. While serving commercial clients, Mary also led BCG’s New York City non-profit practice for five years. Mary began her career as a junior high math teacher in a public school in Harlem.
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As a mom and an educator and aspiring influencer of policy I enjoyed hearing Mary’s story. It is nice to hear that things work out ok in the end. (Also, since I know her personally and know first hand how fabulous her husband and children are, I’m also convinced she is super woman!)
I was in a class she taught at Columbia Business School, right before she joined Starbucks, which she announced last day of class to an outburst of applause. Customer-Centric Strategy was it called; one of my favorite classes. Her lectures were always so delightful. It’s great listening to hear once again.