Geneva, Switzerland — Mark Schneider, the CEO of Nestle, has announced his departure from the company after serving for eight years. Schneider will also leave his position as a member of the Board of Directors.
In a statement released Thursday, Nestle confirmed that Schneider has made this decision and will be succeeded by Laurent Freixe, who is currently in charge of Nestle’s operations in Latin America.
Schneider’s tenure at Nestle began in 2017. He has led the company through significant changes and challenges in the global food industry, focusing on sustainability and health-conscious products. Under his leadership, Nestle has increased its portfolio of plant-based options and expanded its digital marketing and e-commerce strategies.
Freixe joined Nestle in 1996 and has held various leadership roles in several countries, including Brazil, Argentina, and Chile. He became the head of Nestle in Latin America in 2020. Freixe is expected to bring his extensive experience in the region and his knowledge of the company’s operations to the role of CEO.
The transition marks a new chapter for Nestle as it prepares to navigate a rapidly evolving market landscape. The company faces increasing competition and changing consumer preferences. Sustainability and health remain key areas of focus for Nestle, reflecting broader trends in the food industry.
Schneider expressed gratitude for his time at the helm of Nestle. He emphasized the importance of the team and the company’s commitment to meeting the needs of consumers.
Freixe’s appointment comes at a pivotal time for Nestle. The company aims to strengthen its position in major markets while adapting to new demands. Leadership transitions are common in large corporations as they seek fresh perspectives and strategies.
Nestle remains one of the largest food and beverage companies in the world. It has a broad product range, including coffee, dairy, and frozen foods. As Freixe steps into his new role, the company will look to build on the progress made under Schneider’s leadership while setting new goals for the future.
The company’s shareholders and stakeholders will be closely watching how Freixe leads the organization in the coming months.