Tara MacMillan

regional vice president, Canada-East

Tara MacMillan (she/her) is regional vice president, leading Starbuck company-operated stores in the eastern region of Canada. In her role, Tara partners with Starbucks regional directors to grow Starbucks partners (employees) and business while uplifting the everyday for customers.

Tara began her career with Starbucks in 2009 as an assistant store manager in Waterloo, Ontario, and has since held a number of leadership roles in Canada operations over the next decade, including regional operations coach, district manager, regional director and director of business operations.  

Tara has a legacy of developing partners, creating the best work experience for her partners and a passion for driving exceptional customer moments.  She is particularly proud to be the executive sponsor of the Starbucks Canada Disability Advocate Network, where she works side by side with partners to create and support inclusive spaces for all. 

Tara also earned her Coffee Master black apron for the first time in 2012, a distinction that demonstrates her passion for coffee and a proud moment that has taken her to Starbucks coffee farm, Hacienda Alsacia, in Costa Rica. This experience left her with an understanding of “the first 10 feet” of the bean to cup journey and a deep appreciation for how every effort, every bean, and every coffee matters. 

Outside of work, Tara loves to spend time with her husband, their four adult kids and their dogs, horses and cat. Tara enjoys volunteering at her local food bank as well as supporting equine therapy farms. Travel — especially to warm destinations — and a hot Starbucks Americano are a couple of Tara’s simple pleasures.