Overview

• Paul Bulcke will be named honorary chairman, while Dick Boer becomes lead independent director and vice chairman and Marie-Gabrielle Ineichen-Fleisch is appointed vice chair, all effective October 1.
• The accelerated shift follows the dismissal of CEO Laurent Freixe over an undisclosed relationship with a subordinate, with Nespresso head Philipp Navratil already installed as chief executive.
• Nestlé shares edged lower after the announcement, reflecting lingering governance concerns and scrutiny of the company’s strategy.
• Investors view Isla and Navratil as a potential reset and expect a push on digital, e-commerce and supply-chain upgrades, with a Nestlé source saying AI is being targeted to improve operations.
• Isla is the first Nestlé chairman in 25 years hired from outside the company, and he is expected to be a hands-on mentor as Navratil said he wants the company to move fast and embrace fresh ideas.