Freixe’s exit is outlined in a statement from Swiss food and beverage giant Nestlé as follows: “The departure of Laurent Freixe follows an investigation into an undisclosed romantic relationship with a direct subordinate which breached Nestlé’s Code of Business Conduct.”
Freixe departs after just a year in the top job - having been appointed as CEO in September 2024 – but after nearly 40 years with Nestlé.
Commenting on Freixe’s dismissal, Nestle chairman Paul Bulcke said: “This was a necessary decision. Nestlé’s values and governance are strong foundations of our company. I thank Laurent for his years of service at Nestlé.”
Who is Philipp Navratil?
Navratil has more than two decades of experience at Nestlé across its global business: with an extensive background in the coffee industry.
He began his career with Nestlé in 2001 as an International Auditor: rising to Country Manager for Nestlé Honduras in 2009.
In 2013, he took on leadership of the company’s coffee and beverage business in Mexico.
In 2020, his expertise in coffee saw him appointed as Senior Vice President of Nestlé’s Coffee Strategic Business Unit: a division of consistent growth and innovation for Nestlé. In this role, he responsible for shaping global strategy and driving innovation for Nescafé and Starbucks coffee brands.
He became CEO of Nespresso just over a year ago in July 2024; taking charge of a business that brings in nearly $8bn a year in sales. He joined the Nestle executive board in January this year.
Philipp holds a Master of Business Administration from the University of St. Gallen, Switzerland.
The new head of Nespresso has not been announced.