Coca-Cola announced this Wednesday (12) the appointment of Brazilian Henrique Braun, 57, as the company’s new executive president. He assumes the role on March 31, 2026, replacing James Quincey.
Braun had served as global chief operating officer since January. The executive started at Coca-Cola in 1996, as a trainee and became president of the company in Brazil in 2016. Throughout his career, he worked in areas such as supply chain, new business development and bottling operations.
“I will focus on continuing the momentum we have built with our system. We will work to unlock future growth in partnership with our bottlers,” Braun said in a statement.
The change in command at Coca-Cola comes at a time when companies in the sector are trying to adjust strategies for consumers looking for healthier and more accessible drinks and snacks.
Coca-Cola’s portfolio of sugar-free beverages, as well as premium product lines, have kept the company better off in an unstable consumer landscape, unlike rivals like PepsiCo.
Coca-Cola’s share price has risen nearly 63% since Quincey, 60, took over as chief executive in May 2017.
Quincey has led the company during a period in which the soft drink maker intensified its focus on sugar-free and low-calorie beverages, as well as adding product lines such as milk, sparkling water, coffee and energy drinks through acquisitions.
“Quincey has set a high standard. Investors can expect the new CEO to continue to refresh the brand portfolio,” said Kimberly Forrest, chief investment officer at Bokeh Capital Partners.
The consumer goods sector has seen a series of changes in senior management roles this year as companies adapt to a divided consumer environment, as well as operational and supply chain challenges.
Com Reuters