Nestle's Unexpected CEO Succession: Laurent Freixe Dismissed, Philipp Navratil Takes Over Leadership Role

In a significant move, Nestlé has announced the appointment of Philipp Navratil as its new CEO, effective immediately. The decision comes at a sensitive time for the company, which has been grappling with various challenges.

The dismissal of Laurent Freixe, who was previously at the helm, was made to reinforce Nestlé's stance on workplace ethics and limit reputational damage. Freixe was dismissed due to allegations of a romantic relationship with a subordinate, which violated the company’s code of business conduct. This breach led the board to view his actions as incompatible with the company’s values and governance standards.

Navratil, a Nestlé insider with over two decades of experience, most recently served as CEO of Nespresso and joined the company’s Executive Board in January 2025. His career at Nestlé includes roles in Central America, Mexico, and as Global Head of Coffee Strategic Business Unit, managing brands like Nescafé and Starbucks.

The new CEO is expected to bring discipline, restore trust, and signal strong, forward-looking leadership. Analysts believe Navratil’s strong track record in beverages may help Nestlé revive profitability in one of its fastest-growing categories.

Nestlé's board described the decision as necessary to protect the company’s integrity. The dismissal was confirmed by a comprehensive investigation led by Chairman Paul Bulcke, independent director Pablo Isla, and external legal counsel. Bulcke, Nestlé’s Chairman, is due to retire in 2026, adding to the company’s leadership transitions.

The company has emphasized that there will be no shift in strategic direction under Navratil. However, Nestlé must balance its traditional strengths with innovation in health-focused and sustainable products. Consumers and regulators demand greener operations from Nestlé, and Navratil's leadership will be measured on progress in this area.

Global inflation and tariffs are pushing input costs higher, requiring Navratil to exhibit financial discipline. The company's stock prices have been falling, with shares down about 17% this year, reflecting ongoing investor unease.

Rebuilding trust, both internally and externally, will be a priority for Navratil. He must drive growth while addressing the frequency of leadership turnover that has caused instability within the company. Nestlé must also focus on managing costs to maintain profitability amidst challenging economic conditions.

In conclusion, the appointment of Philipp Navratil as Nestlé’s new CEO marks a pivotal moment for the company. Navratil's leadership will be crucial in navigating the company through its current challenges and positioning it for future success.

Nestle's Unexpected CEO Succession: Laurent Freixe Dismissed, Philipp Navratil Takes Over Leadership Role