Case Study #2: Starbucks - How Leaders Emerge During Challenging Times Lecturer during case analyses pay attention to the chapter 9. Leadership and change Starbucks is recognized for treating its employees, also known as parbters, well. The coffee giant offers insurance benefits, stock options and retirement plans. But back in 199T, Starbucks faced a 'iSiS when tragedy struck and three employees were killed during a robbery in Washington, 11C. The outstanding leadership of CEO Howard Schultz was demonstrated when he ew straight to ELIE. and spent a week with the coworkers and families of the three employees. 1'.|"-.I"hile some leaders might have stayed as far away as possible from this tragic situation, Shulta's natural leadership traits prevailed. With compassion, approachability and a dedication to meeting bis parbters' needs, he did what was right. As a result, the public 1viewed him and Starbucks more favorably