Kraft Heinz Selects Steve Cahillane as Next CEO Amid Company Split
The Kraft Heinz Co. has named a new top leader, choosing Steve Cahillane to replace Carlos Abrams-Rivera, who will step down on Jan. 1.
Abrams-Rivera will remain on as an advisor through the transition process, which ends March 6.
Cahillane, formerly president and CEO of Kellanova, will serve as CEO of Global Taste Elevation Co. following Kraft Heinz’s planned separation into two independent, publicly traded companies.
About the Separation: The two businesses — Global Taste Elevation Co. and North American Grocery Co. (formal names to be announced at a later date) — will focus on shelf-stable meals and North American staples, respectively. The company stated that the split will enable Kraft Heinz to maximize its capabilities and brands, reducing complexity and optimizing resource allocation toward distinct strategic priorities.
Miguel Patricio, chair of the Kraft Heinz board, said Cahillane is uniquely qualified to lead the organization into the future, bringing a track record and experience that is unparalleled in the industry.
The board will initiate a global search to fill the role of CEO for its North American Grocery Co.
More About Cahillane
Cahillane was most recently the president and CEO of Kellanova prior to the acquisition by Mars. During his tenure with the company, he oversaw the expansion of brands such as Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts and Kellogg's. He also played a key role in the separation of the Kellogg Co., into Kellanova and W.K. Kellogg.
Prior to joining Kraft Heinz, Cahillane spent time working with consumer goods companies such as The Coca-Cola Co., AB InBev and Nature's Bounty Co.
He was president and CEO of The Nature’s Bounty Co., a global pure-play manufacturer, marketer and specialty retailer of health and wellness products. At Coca-Cola, Cahillane worked in a variety of roles throughout his seven years with the company, most recently serving as president of Coca-Cola Americas. At AB InBev, he was chief commercial officer.
New CEOs Tapped to Navigate Bumpy Road
This past year, the industry has experienced a series of top leadership shifts, reflecting new strategic priorities as companies move into 2026 and continue to navigate a turbulent economic environment.
For example, at Coca-Cola, Henrique Braun takes on the role of CEO, replacing James Quincey, who will transition to executive chairman.
Also, Diageo recently named a new CEO — Dave Lewis — to replace Debra Crew, who stepped down in the summer by mutual agreement with the company’s board.
Bic, Herr Foods and Khloud all shifted their CEOs in the same week earlier as part of efforts to accelerate growth strategies. And Nestlé selected new leadership earlier this year. Philipp Navratil was promoted to CEO after spending more than three decades with the company.
