Nestle has announced a major change in its leadership, appointing Laurent Freixe as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective September 1, 2024. Laurent Freixe, who has been with Nestle since 1986, will take over from Mark Schneider, who is stepping down after 8 years in the role. This leadership transition marks a significant moment for the company as it continues to evolve in a rapidly changing global market.
Laurent Freixe’s career at Nestle has been impressive, starting in France and progressing through various roles across different regions and markets. He has successfully managed challenging situations, such as leading Zone Europe during the financial crisis from 2008 to 2014 and driving growth in Zone Americas. Most recently, as CEO of Zone Latin America, Freixe has demonstrated his ability to lead through difficult conditions, further solidifying his reputation as a strong leader within the company.
With 16 years on Nestle’s Executive Board, Freixe has played a key role in shaping the company’s strategic direction. He has been involved in numerous global initiatives aimed at improving productivity, increasing operational efficiency, and fostering innovation. His commitment to developing future leaders is evident through his active participation in Nestle’s Leadership and Training Programs and the Nestle Needs YOUth initiative, which supports youth employment.
Paul Bulcke, Chairman of the Board of Directors, expressed his confidence in Freixe’s ability to lead the company, praising his strategic insight, market experience, and deep understanding of consumer needs. Bulcke highlighted Freixe’s passion for innovation and his ability to deliver results even in challenging conditions, stating that Freixe is the perfect fit to lead Nestle at this time.
Mark Schneider, who has decided to step down as CEO, has been a transformative leader for Nestle. During his tenure, he focused on high-growth categories such as coffee, pet care, and nutritional health products, aligning the company’s portfolio with its strategic goals. Schneider reflected on his time at Nestle with pride, noting the progress made in transforming the company into a future-ready, innovative, and sustainable business.
As Laurent Freixe steps into his new role, he acknowledged the challenges ahead but expressed confidence in Nestle’s strengths, including its iconic brands, global presence, and exceptional teams. He emphasized the importance of strategically positioning Nestle to lead and succeed in every market it operates in.
This leadership change is a pivotal moment for Nestle as it continues to build on its legacy of innovation and growth. With Freixe at the helm, the company is well-positioned to navigate the future and maintain its status as a global leader in the food and beverage industry.
