Blair Taylor joined Starbucks in July 2012 as their chief community officer, which he describes as a “perfect opportunity to combine my community, public and corporate experience at one organization”. In this role, he leads Starbucks efforts to help communities thrive through the company’s community, government relations, diversity, and global responsibility efforts.
Prior to joining Starbucks, Taylor was CEO of the Los Angeles Urban League, ranked in the NonProfit Times’ Power & Influence Top 50 each of the last two years, a testament to his reputation for being able to forge relationships for the benefit of the community. Since taking leadership in 2005, Taylor created a massive model for social change in South Los Angeles, skillfully engaging stakeholders in entrepreneurial initiatives to address problems facing some of the most underserved and, at times, neglected residents in the city. He also serves as a member of the Starbucks Foundation Board of Directors.