Howard Behar is the former president of Starbucks North America and Starbucks International. He joined Starbucks in 1989 as vice president of sales and operations, and grew the retail business from 28 stores to more than 400, by the time he was named president of Starbucks Coffee International in 1995.

Under Behar's leadership, Starbucks opened its first location in Tokyo in 1996, then introduced the Starbucks brand across Asia and the United Kingdom. He retired as president of Starbucks North America in January 2003, but continues to serve in an advisory capacity and to coach leaders at all levels. He was a member of the Board of Directors from 1996 - 2008. Since his retirement he has written a book It's Not About the Coffee that describe his leadership principles.

Behar serves on several other boards, including Anna's Linens, The Gap Inc., Jewish Family Service of Seattle, Washington State Budget and Policy Center and Board of Advisors at Rosewood Capital. He lives in Seattle with his wife, Lynn.