Ann Burkhart

About Ann Burkhart

I’m a sustainability leader on a mission to build programs and partnerships that positively impact people and planet. With a deep track record of driving mission-aligned programs across corporate, nonprofit, and entrepreneurial sectors, I specialize in uniting diverse stakeholders—investors, corporate executives, philanthropies, farmers, community members, and government leaders—around shared goals of ethical sourcing, environmental sustainability, and long-term systems change.I bring deep expertise in ESG strategy, sustainable supply chains, nonprofit board governance, and hospitality. I’ve built frameworks that improve transparency, strengthen accountability, and elevate industry standards. My work has spanned global sustainability and sourcing programs for Starbucks and philanthropic foundations, where I championed ethical standards and shaped policies that influence supplier practices across Fortune 500 companies worldwide.My entrepreneurial ventures and nonprofit leadership have been equally focused on catalyzing impact. I raised over $3M for a new venture by building trust, crafting compelling value propositions, and activating investor networks. I’ve also led strategic planning efforts, formed high-impact cross-sector partnerships, and served in board governance roles with sustainability-focused nonprofits—all driving measurable results for equity, environmental stewardship, and innovation.Career Highlights• Strategic Planning: Led dozens of strategic planning processes for departments and boards, using tools like SWOT, OKRs, Theory of Change, and Design Thinking to ensure clarity, alignment, and measurable outcomes.• Cross-Functional Execution: Led development of global palm oil and conflict minerals policies for Starbucks, including selection of third-party providers and execution of annual reporting processes. From 20••••18 certified palm oil use increased by 128% and conflict mineral reporting by suppliers increased from 21%. Designed grievance management system templates and training for Earthworm Foundation to sell through to members in every market. • Corporate Sustainability: Developed sustainability standards and reporting frameworks at Starbucks, including the Dairy Sustainability Framework in China. Influenced supplier practices and aligned policies with global best practices.• Entrepreneurial Leadership & Fundraising: Conceptualized and led the development of a retreat center for connection, learning, and rejuvenation. Raised $3M+ from 100+ investors through strategic pitches and relationship-building.Let’s connect!

Experience

1. Consultant

   Aetheon

   Jan 2026 — Present · Seattle, WA, US

   Go-to-market pilot project lead for military and early-career pilots.

Education

• University of Washington

  BA

• New York University - Leonard N. Stern School of Business

  MBA