Starbucks CEO Brian Niccol and Chipotle CEO Scott Boatwright, despite leading rival fast-casual brands, start most mornings together at the gym. They often discuss industry trends such as artificial intelligence and the growing popularity of protein-rich menus, while also sharing insights on each other’s businesses, including Chipotle’s use of guacamole-making robots.
At 5 a.m., long before their customers order lattes or burrito bowls, Niccol and Boatwright meet for workouts side by side. Boatwright recently spoke about their routine during Fortune’s COO summit, saying, “I was actually in the gym with Brian just this morning, talking about what’s going on at Starbucks and sharing some thoughts about Chipotle.” Niccol has said he mixes strength training, weight lifting, and running or walking as part of his exercise routine.
Their friendship dates back to 2018 when Niccol became CEO of Chipotle, with Boatwright serving as his chief operating officer. “Brian and I made a great tag team because I was effectively running the business,” Boatwright said. “I think I ran a pretty good business, and I know Brian really managed a great stock.” When Niccol left Chipotle to lead Starbucks, Boatwright stepped into the CEO role. He recalled Niccol’s parting advice: “Don’t screw it up.”
Their bond shows how important it is for even top executives to have trusted friends for support and advice. Fortune reached out to both leaders for further comment.
Executives often face isolation in leadership roles, making close professional relationships valuable. Warren Buffett famously credited his longtime partnership with Charlie Munger as key to their mutual success. Buffett once said, “Every time I’m with Charlie, I’ve got at least some new slant on an idea that causes me to rethink certain things. We’ve had so much fun in the partnership over the years.”
Yet building and maintaining strong relationships can be difficult. Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky shared that he sought advice from former President Barack Obama to improve his leadership. On Michelle Obama’s podcast, Chesky said, “The vast majority of people, if they reach out to someone, someone will want to help them. They reach out to an old friend, the old friend will want to reach back out. It’s a path for reconnection, relationships, and purpose.”
For many leaders, finding time for exercise is a challenge but remains a priority. Niccol and Boatwright view working out as essential to their success and health. Chesky, a former competitive bodybuilder, often exercises twice daily. His routine includes light cardio in the morning, like using the StairMaster or walking his dog, followed by a personal training session in the evening. He also emphasizes the importance of sleep, saying, “I want to try to get at least seven hours of sleep. The extra hour you save by not sleeping probably makes every hour the next day a little less productive.”
Disney CEO Bob Iger, now in his seventies, starts his day at 4 a.m. with a workout. He credits exercise and healthy eating for maintaining the stamina needed to run a major entertainment company. “Just taking care of my body and my mind is really important. I could not do this job if I were not in some form of physical and mental health,” Iger told the In Good Company podcast last year.
These examples highlight how top executives balance demanding careers with maintaining physical and mental well-being to perform at their best.
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