Nestlé CEO Laurent Freixe has been removed from his role following an internal investigation into a breach of the company’s code of conduct. The decision marks one of the most significant leadership changes at the food giant in recent years.
The inquiry was conducted under the supervision of Chairman Paul Bulcke and Lead Independent Director Pablo Isla. Findings showed that Freixe had entered into a romantic relationship with a direct subordinate. This conduct was classified as a violation of Nestlé’s strict ethical guidelines, which prohibit relationships that create conflicts of interest.
Bulcke commented that the decision, though difficult, was necessary to safeguard the values and governance of Nestlé. In his words, “Nestlé’s values and governance are strong foundations of our company. I thank Laurent for his years of service.”
Freixe had only taken the CEO role in September 2024, following the departure of former chief executive Mark Schneider. His exit less than a year later highlights the seriousness with which Nestlé enforces its code of business conduct.
To ensure stability, Nestlé has appointed Philipp Navratil as the new Chief Executive Officer. Navratil is a veteran within the company, having joined in 2001 as an internal auditor. Over more than two decades, he has worked across Central America, Mexico, and Nestlé’s global coffee division.
In 2024, he moved to Nespresso and quickly advanced, joining the executive board in January 2025. His long history with the company and experience in both regional and global operations positioned him as the natural choice to take over leadership.
The removal of Laurent Freixe underscores Nestlé’s zero tolerance for ethical breaches at the executive level. By taking swift action, the company is sending a message to employees, investors, and the public that corporate integrity is non-negotiable.
Analysts suggest that this move will likely strengthen confidence in Nestlé’s governance structures, even if the short-term impact of the leadership shake-up creates uncertainty. Navratil’s promotion also shows Nestlé’s commitment to cultivating leadership from within its own ranks.
The episode serves as a reminder that in today’s business climate, transparency and ethical conduct are critical. Nestlé appears determined to reinforce these principles, ensuring that its leadership reflects the same high standards the company demands across all operations worldwide.
