Zev Siegl

Zev Siegl is a co-founder of Starbucks Coffee Company and a serial entrepreneur. Known for his foundational role in establishing one of the world's most recognized coffee brands, Siegl also founded Quartermaine Coffee Roasters, BuckleUp, and several other companies. During Starbucks’ early days, Siegl, a former history teacher, was the only paid employee. In 1980, after a decade as vice president, he exited Starbucks, which by then had expanded to six Seattle-area stores and a substantial wholesale business.

Siegl is an international presenter with strong experience as an early-stage business entrepreneur, investor, director, executive, consultant, and advisor. He held leadership roles in four start-ups and two turnarounds. He also dedicated eight years as an award-winning full-time early-stage advisor with the Small Business Development Center Network in Seattle, advising more than 500 entrepreneurs and owners of small business enterprises. Now, he runs his own consulting company, advising on various aspects of business operations including funding, financial forecasting, planning, and private equity offerings.

Zev Siegl is experienced in speaking to entrepreneurs, small business owners, and business advisors. His passion for mentoring young entrepreneurs is evident throughout his presentations, which are rich with practical insights on starting successful businesses. His talks, such as "Right From The Start --- the global toolkit for new venture survival" and "Set Your Compass on Purpose," include selected photographs and stories about Starbucks' first decade to illustrate the essential strategies for overcoming the significant hurdles that early-stage companies encounter. Mr. Siegl's global presentations schedule currently includes audiences of young business owners in locations like Russia, Kuwait, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, Malaysia, South Africa, and across the United States.