Summary of Kraft Heinz leadership transition
- Kraft Heinz appoints Steve Cahillane as CEO starting January 2026
- He will lead Global Taste Elevation Co. after planned separation
- Outgoing CEO Carlos Abrams-Rivera stays briefly to support leadership transition
- Cahillane brings experience from Kellanova and major global food companies
- Board roles shift as John Cahill becomes Chair during separation
The Kraft Heinz Company has named Steve Cahillane as chief executive officer, effective 1 January, 2026.
Cahillane will also join the Company’s Board of Directors and serve as CEO of the Global Taste Elevation Co. following Kraft Heinz’s planned separation into two independent, publicly traded companies.
Outgoing CEO, Carlos Abrams-Rivera, will move into the role of advisor to the Company until 6 March, 2026, to “ensure a seamless leadership transition”.
“I am honored to be joining Kraft Heinz as CEO at such a pivotal and exciting time,” said Cahillane in a statement. “Like millions of people around the world, I have a deeply personal connection to the Kraft Heinz brands, dating back to my childhood. I’ve devoted my entire career to building brands, and the opportunity to do the same with Kraft Heinz’s iconic portfolio is a dream come true.”
Cahillane went on to say he’s “confident” the separation will accelerate the Company’s ability to compete in today’s market.
Cahillane joins Kraft Heinz from Kellanova where he served as chairman, president and CEO until its recent acquisition by Mars, Incorporated.
During his time at Kellanova, Cahillane oversaw the expansion of the company’s brand portfolio, including Pringles, Cheez-It, Pop-Tarts, and Kellogg’s (International). He also led the Kellogg Company through the separation of its North American cereal business and the launch of Kellanova.
He previously held senior executive roles at The Nature’s Bounty Co., The Coca-Cola Company and AB InBev.
“Steve is uniquely qualified to lead this organisation into the future, and we are delighted he will be taking on the role of CEO,” said Miguel Patricio, Chair of the Board at Kraft Heinz. “His track record and experience in the industry are unparalleled and will be invaluable as we embark on this next chapter.”
He went on to thank outgoing CEO Carlos Abrams-Rivera for his “many contributions to the Company”.
As part of the leadership transition, John T Cahill, Vice Chair of Kraft Heinz’s Board, who previously served as CEO of Kraft prior to Heinz merger, will become Board Chair. Cahill will continue to lead the Board’s Separation Committee.
Miguel Patricio will continue to serve as a Board Member of Kraft Heinz. The Board will also initiate a global search for a CEO to lead North American Grocery Co.
The future of Kraft Heinz
As Kraft Heinz prepares for its historic separation into two independent companies, the leadership reshuffle marks a defining moment for the organisation.
With Cahillane stepping in at the helm and long‑time leaders such as Patricio guiding the transition from the Board, the company is positioning itself for both stability and strategic reinvention.
The months ahead will be crucial as Kraft Heinz finalises its split, launches Global Taste Elevation Co., and begins its search for a leader to steer North American Grocery Co.
