SEATTLE — Matthew Ryan has joined Starbucks Coffee Co. as global chief strategy officer.

“Matt’s innovative approach to customer analytics, market segmentation and brand optimization will bring a new level of insight and imagination to Starbucks and our significant brand ambitions,” said Howard Schultz, chairman, president and chief executive officer.

Mr. Ryan will serve on Starbucks senior leadership team and will lead Starbucks long-term strategic planning process; improve the monetization of Starbucks retail, channel and emerging brands; and strengthen the company’s fast-growing customer relationship management and loyalty capabilities. He also will serve on the company’s Global Brand Leadership Team responsible for integrating the company’s regional brand and marketing initiatives.

Prior to joining Starbucks, Mr. Ryan was senior vice-president of global brand, franchise and customer relationship management for The Walt Disney Co. Prior to joining Disney in 1998, he held senior strategic planning roles with several national and international advertising agencies.

Mr. Ryan received a bachelor’s degree in history and literature at Harvard University.