Management change at Nestlé: Laurent Freixe replaces Mark Schneider

By: Trademagazin Date: 2024. 08. 23. 12:14

From September 1, 2024, Laurent Freixe will take over the position of CEO of Nestlé after Mark Schneider steps down after eight years. The world’s largest food company is going through a difficult period, as customers have severely curtailed their spending due to inflation, which has had a negative impact on the Lean Cuisine, DiGiorno, SweetEarth and HotPockets brands in particular.

Under Schneider’s leadership, Nestlé underwent a significant transformation. The company restructured its portfolio, selling slower-growing businesses and focusing on fast-growing categories such as coffee, pet care and health food.

With the selection of Nestlé Schneider’s successor, it is returning to its roots, as Freixe has been working for the company for more than three decades. Schneider was the first external CEO in the company’s history, who at the time came from the Fresenius Group healthcare company.

Freixe’s experience and strategic vision will ensure a smooth transition, especially at a time when food companies cannot afford to make mistakes.

According to Paul Bulcke, Nestlé’s chairman of the board, Freixe is “an excellent leader who is able to achieve excellent results even in difficult market conditions.” Inflation, global uncertainty and changing consumer habits continue to pose challenges for the company.