How an Undisclosed Relationship Got Nestlé’s CEO Fired
Nestlé has dismissed its chief executive, Laurent Freixe, after just one year for failing to disclose a romantic relationship with a direct subordinate. The decision followed an investigation by Nestlé’s chair Paul Bulcke, and independent director Pablo Isla, triggered by a whistleblower report.
Freixe, who spent nearly 40 years at the company, will not receive an exit package. He was appointed CEO in September 2024, replacing Mark Schneider. Philipp Navratil, with Nestlé since 2001, has been named as his successor.
The company emphasized its commitment to corporate governance, stating that the probe was handled with the assistance of outside counsel after initial internal checks. Nestle stressed its strategy and performance remain unchanged despite the leadership shakeup.
The case follows similar CEO departures at BP and McDonald’s over personal relationships, highlighting growing corporate scrutiny of workplace conduct.