Nestlé Dismisses CEO Laurent Freixe Over Code of Conduct Breach, Appoints Philipp Navratil
Nestlé terminated CEO Laurent Freixe following an investigation into an undisclosed, inappropriate relationship with a subordinate, violating the company's code of conduct. Philipp Navratil has been appointed as his replacement.
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Overview
- Nestlé dismissed CEO Laurent Freixe due to a breach of the company's code of conduct, stemming from an undisclosed, inappropriate romantic relationship with a subordinate.
- The decision to terminate Freixe was made by Nestlé chairman Paul Bulcke after an internal investigation confirmed the violation of company policy.
- Freixe's dismissal highlights Nestlé's commitment to upholding its code of conduct, ensuring accountability for all employees, including senior leadership.
- Philipp Navratil has been appointed as the new CEO, stepping into the role previously held by Laurent Freixe following his termination.
- Navratil, who began his career with Nestlé in 2001 as an internal auditor, brings extensive experience from various roles within the company, including in Central America.
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Analysis
Center-leaning sources cover this story neutrally, focusing on the factual details of Nestle's CEO dismissal. They report the reason for his departure hrough their collective editorial choices. They use phrases like "failed to disclose" to describe the situation, maintaining a neutral tone. The selection of the Nestle chairman's quote also supports a neutral stance, presenting the company's official position without further interpretation. This approach ensures the information is conveyed directly and objectively.
"The maker of Nescafé drinks and Purina pet food said in a statement that the dismissal was effective immediately."
CBS News"The Swiss food giant, which makes Kit Kat chocolate bars and Nespresso coffee capsules, said Laurent Freixe has been dismissed with "immediate effect" following an investigation led by Nestle's chair and lead independent director."
BBC NewsArticles (4)
FAQ
Laurent Freixe breached Nestlé's Code of Business Conduct by having an undisclosed romantic relationship with a direct subordinate, which was determined to be inappropriate and against company policy.
Philipp Navratil, appointed as Nestlé's new CEO, started his career at Nestlé in 2001 as an internal auditor and has held various roles within the company, including positions in Central America, bringing extensive experience to his new leadership role.
Nestlé chairman Paul Bulcke described the dismissal of Laurent Freixe as a necessary decision, emphasizing the importance of upholding the company's strong values and governance.
Nestlé's Board ordered an internal investigation into the undisclosed relationship involving Laurent Freixe, overseen by Chairman Paul Bulcke and Lead Independent Director Pablo Isla, with support from independent outside counsel to ensure thoroughness and impartiality.
Before becoming CEO in 2024, Laurent Freixe had roles in Marketing and Sales in France, was Head of the Nutrition Division of Nestlé France, CEO of Nestlé Hungary, and CEO of the Nestlé Iberian Region.
History
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