Several major companies have announced changes in their leadership this year. Unilever ousted its CEO, Hein Schumacher, and replaced him with Fernando Fernandez in February. Stanley Black & Decker appointed Christopher Nelson as its next CEO, effective October 1, succeeding Donald Allan Jr. who is set to retire.
Hershey named Kirk Tanner, the chief of Wendy’s, as its CEO, effective August 18, replacing Michele Buck who is set to retire. Hindustan Unilever named Priya Nair as its managing director and CEO, replacing Rohit Jawa. Kenvue fired its CEO, Thibaut Mongon, and named director Kirk Perry as interim CEO.
Diageo’s CEO, Debra Crew, stepped down after two years, and finance chief Nik Jhangiani took over in the interim. Procter & Gamble said CEO Jon Moeller is stepping away, to be succeeded by Chief Operating Officer Shailesh Jejurikar. Target named Michael Fiddelke as its CEO, replacing Brian Cornell, effective February 1, 2026.
Nestle dismissed its CEO, Laurent Freixe, following an investigation into an undisclosed romantic relationship, and replaced him with Philipp Navratil. Walmart’s CEO, Doug McMillon, will retire in January 2026, and John Furner will succeed him. Kohl’s Corp named Michael Bender as its permanent CEO, after he served as the interim chief since May.
Coca-Cola named COO Henrique Braun as its new CEO, effective March 31, 2026, succeeding James Quincey. Altria announced that CEO Billy Gifford will retire, effective May 14, 2026, and will be succeeded by finance head Salvatore Mancuso. Lululemon Athletica named its finance chief Meghan Frank and chief commercial officer André Maestrini as co-interim CEOs while it searches for its new boss.
Most recently, Kraft Heinz named industry veteran Steve Cahillane as its new CEO, ahead of the packaged food giant’s split, effective January 1. These changes in leadership reflect the evolving needs and strategies of these companies as they navigate the current business landscape.