STARBUCKS
After spending a few years as the primary design engineer for Starbucks branded merchandise at PMI Worldwide, I moved into a cross-functional leadership role managing innovation for the private label business unit. Focus areas included recycled material integration, color material finish (CMF) innovation, and the development of innovative manual coffee brewing equipment. For what was once a minute portion of Starbucks’ overall business, the retail tumbler category grew into a bright spot for the brand, and resulted in an expanded partnership between the two organizations.
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Starbucks Reserve Ivy Pour Over
I served as the primary design engineer for a product that was meant for both barista behind-the-bar and consumer at-home use. Brew quality was of the upmost importance while also maintaining a design aesthetic that would be worthy of the Starbucks Reserve branding.
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Recycled Materials Line
I led the team in material sourcing and product development for Starbucks’ earth day launch - a key sustainability messaging opportunity for the brand. The products featured up to 90% recycled content in a number of material types across plastics, stainless steel, glass and ceramic, as well as softgoods.
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Color-Changing Cold Cups
Starbucks merchandise has been synonymous with fun accessories to enjoy your beverages. To provide some innovation for a refresh of the best selling reusable cold cup category, I led sourcing and concept development for a new thermochromic effect. The cups proved to be a viral sensation with consumers. We continuously refreshed in new colors, confetti and swirl effects over the years.