Overview
- Cahillane takes over as chief executive on Jan. 1, 2026, as Carlos Abrams-Rivera steps down and serves as an adviser through March 6, 2026.
- After the split, Cahillane will lead the higher-growth Global Taste Elevation business, while the board launches a global search for a CEO to run North American Grocery.
- The separation into two publicly traded companies is projected for the second half of 2026, reversing much of the 2015 Kraft–Heinz merger.
- Global Taste Elevation will house brands such as Heinz, Philadelphia and Kraft Mac & Cheese with roughly $15 billion in sales, while North American Grocery will include Oscar Mayer, Kraft Singles and Lunchables.
- Cahillane endorsed the breakup but said he reserves the right to refine the plans, as Reuters-reported commentary from bankers and analysts framed his appointment as a potential prelude to asset sales; John T. Cahill will succeed Miguel Patricio as board chair.