Nestlé replaces CEO Laurent Freixe with Philipp Navratil

Nestlé, the world's largest food and drink company by revenue, has removed Chief Executive Laurent Freixe with immediate effect, citing a breach of internal conduct rules. 

In a statement, the company said the move follows an internal investigation into Freixe’s “undisclosed romantic relationship with a direct subordinate, which breached Nestlé's Code of Business Conduct.” 

Philipp Navratil has been appointed CEO in Freixe’s place, with Chairman of Nestlé's Board of Directors Paul Bulcke saying: “This was a necessary decision. Nestlé's values and governance are strong foundations of our company. I thank Laurent for his years of service at Nestlé.” 

Leadership accountability and board governance

Nestlé's decision ends Freixe’s nearly four-decade tenure at the business. 

He first joined Nestlé in 1986 in sales and marketing before progressing through senior roles including Market Head, Executive Vice President and Zone Director for Europe, CEO for Zone Americas and CEO for Zone Latin America.

During his short tenure as Chief Executive, Freixe focused on marketing investment and higher-margin segments, according to French financial daily Les Echos. 

He also held external roles including Chair of the Global Alliance for Youth and was involved with the World Business Council for Sustainable Design. 

Speaking to UN Today in February 2025, Freixe said his objective was to “ensure Nestlé delivers sustainable, profitable growth and gain market share, while transforming Nestlé for long-term success. 

He added that “it is only by driving business growth that we will be able to make a positive impact on people and the planet.”

Philipp Navratil steps up

Philipp Navratil is Nestlé’s new Chief Executive, topping progression through the business underpinned by a leadership style built on delivery in complex commercial environments. 

His tenure at Nestlé began in 2001 as an internal auditor, followed by operational roles across Central America. 

He became country manager for Nestlé Honduras in 2009 and took on leadership of the beverage business in Mexico by 2013.

Navratil stepped into global leadership in 2020 through Nestlé’s Coffee Strategic Business Unit, where he led strategy and innovation for the Nescafé and Starbucks coffee brands. 

In July 2024, he became CEO of Nestlé Nespresso, joining the company's executive board in January 2025.

Discussing his leadership credentials, Paul explained: “Philipp is recognised for his impressive track record of achieving results in challenging environments. Renowned for his dynamic presence, he inspires teams and leads with a collaborative, inclusive management style.

“The Board is confident that he will drive our growth plans forward and accelerate efficiency efforts. We are not changing course on strategy and we will not lose pace on performance.”

CEO transition and strategic continuity

In his first statement as Chief Executive, Navratil signalled alignment with the current strategic path: “I am honoured by the trust the Board has placed in me, and it is a privilege to take on the responsibility of leading Nestlé into the future. 

“I fully embrace the company's strategic direction, as well as the action plan in place to drive Nestlé's performance.”

He also emphasises his commitment to stakeholder alignment, noting: “I look forward to working closely with the entire leadership of the company, in alignment with the Board, Chairman Paul Bulcke, and Chairman-Designate Pablo Isla, to accelerate execution and to drive the value creation plan with intensity.”