Nestlé has dismissed Chief Executive Laurent Freixe with immediate effect following an internal investigation into a previously undisclosed romantic relationship with a direct subordinate. The Swiss food giant, known for brands like Kit Kat and Nespresso, confirmed the dismissal came after concerns were raised via the company’s whistleblower system.
The investigation, led by Nestlé Chair Paul Bulcke and independent director Pablo Isla, was supported by external legal counsel. While an earlier internal review found no wrongdoing, continued reports led to a more extensive probe, which upheld the allegations.
“This was a necessary decision,” said Bulcke. “Nestlé’s values and governance are strong foundations of our company. I thank Laurent for his years of service.”
Freixe, who had been with Nestlé for nearly 40 years, was appointed CEO in September last year. He will not receive a severance package. The employee involved was not a member of the executive board.
Philipp Navratil, a Nestlé veteran since 2001, has been appointed as Freixe’s successor. The company emphasized that its strategic direction and performance goals remain unchanged.
Chair Paul Bulcke is expected to step down next year, with Pablo Isla, former Inditex CEO, proposed as his replacement.
Nestlé’s move follows similar high-profile cases in recent years, including BP’s Bernard Looney and McDonald’s Steve Easterbrook, both of whom left their roles over inappropriate relationships and failures to disclose them.
