Nestlé CEO Laurent Freixe ousted over alleged romantic relationship

Nestlé has replaced its chief executive after an investigation revealed he allegedly failed to disclose a romantic relationship.

Laurent Freixe, 63, was dismissed as CEO after a year in the role. A company inquiry found that his alleged relationship with a direct subordinate violated the global food brand's code of conduct, Nestlé said in a news release Monday, Sept. 1.

"This was a necessary decision. Nestlé's values and governance are strong foundations of our company. I thank Laurent for his years of service at Nestlé," Chairman Paul Bulcke said news release.

Freixe was appointed as CEO on Sept. 1, 2024 succeeding Mark Schneider. A French citizen, he previously joined Nestlé in 1986 in the sales and marketing division.

USA TODAY has reached out to Freixe for comment.

Philipp Navratil appointed the next CEO

Effective immediately, Philipp Navratil will take over as the new Nestlé CEO, the company announced Sept. 1.

After joining the company in 2001 as an internal auditor, he later went on to manage the Honduras division, overseeing the coffee and beverage business in Mexico and guiding the company's Coffee Strategic Business Unit. He joined the company's executive board at the start of 2025.

"Philipp is recognized for his impressive track record of achieving results in challenging environments. Renowned for his dynamic presence, he inspires teams and leads with a collaborative, inclusive management style. The Board is confident that he will drive our growth plans forward and accelerate efficiency efforts," Schneider said in the news release.