The Kraft Heinz Company (NASDAQ:KHC) said Steve Cahillane will take over as chief executive officer effective January 1, 2026. Current CEO Carlos Abrams-Rivera will step down at that time and remain with the company in an advisory role through March 6, 2026.

Cahillane will also join Kraft Heinz’s Board of Directors and assume leadership of Global Taste Elevation Co., one of the two standalone, publicly listed businesses that will be created following the group’s planned separation. The breakup, first announced in September 2025, is expected to be completed in the second half of 2026.

The incoming CEO most recently served as chairman, president and CEO of Kellanova, a role he held until the company was acquired by Mars, Incorporated in December 2025. While at Kellanova—formerly known as Kellogg Company—Cahillane oversaw the growth of major brands such as Pringles, Cheez-It and Pop-Tarts, and led the company through the spin-off of its North American cereal operations.

Earlier in his career, Cahillane held senior leadership roles at The Nature’s Bounty Co., The Coca-Cola Company and AB InBev. During more than three decades in executive management, he notably served as president of Coca-Cola Americas, overseeing a business generating roughly $25 billion in annual sales.

As part of the broader governance changes, John T. Cahill will take over as chair of the board, replacing Miguel Patricio. Cahill previously served as CEO of Kraft prior to its merger with Heinz and currently chairs the board’s Separation Committee. Patricio will remain on the board following the transition.

Kraft Heinz said it will begin a search for a chief executive to lead North American Grocery Co., the second company to be created from the separation. The transaction is intended to be tax-free for the company and its shareholders, subject to standard conditions including final board approval and regulatory clearances.

Kraft Heinz reported net sales of approximately $26 billion in 2024.

Kraft Heinz stock price

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