Nestlé CEO Ousted Over Conduct Violation as Stock Shows Resilience

Nestlé's board terminated CEO Laurent Freixe after an internal investigation confirmed violations of company policy regarding undisclosed relationships with subordinates. The swift dismissal and seamless transition to successor Philipp Navratil demonstrate robust corporate governance protocols.

Market reaction remained muted, with Nestlé shares maintaining stability—a testament to investor confidence in the company's leadership bench strength. Navratil brings 23 years of institutional knowledge to the role, having most recently led the profitable Nespresso division.

The investigation, overseen by Chairman Paul Bulcke with external legal support, underscores Nestlé's zero-tolerance approach to conduct breaches. Freixe's abrupt departure after just one year at the helm contrasts sharply with his 35-year tenure at the Swiss conglomerate.