US-origin food MNC Kraft Heinz has tapped Steve Cahillane as the new CEO, effective January 1, 2026, as the company prepares for its division into two separate entities.He will subsequently lead the Global Taste Elevation Co., which will manage prominent brands including Kraft Mac & Cheese, Philadelphia cream cheese and Heinz, following the company’s split anticipated in the latter half of next year.“Like millions of people around the world, I have a deeply personal connection to the Kraft Heinz brands, dating back to my childhood,” Cahillane said in a statement. “I’ve devoted my entire career to building brands, and the opportunity to do the same with Kraft Heinz’s iconic portfolio is a dream come true.”The second entity, North American Grocery Co, will oversee brands such as Maxwell House, Oscar Mayer, Kraft Singles and Lunchables. A CEO for this division has not yet been announced.The current CEO, Carlos Abrams-Rivera, who began his tenure in January 2024, will transition to an advisory role until March 2026.The separation announcement came in September, ten years after the merger that created one of the world’s largest food manufacturers. The company states this division will enhance operational efficiency and resource allocation.The company has faced challenges as consumer preferences shift towards less processed foods, moving away from products like Velveeta cheese and Kool-Aid. Additional costs have emerged from efforts to remove artificial ingredients.The corporation has also encountered difficulties in differentiating its products from lower-priced store alternatives.Cahillane previously managed a similar division at Kellogg Co. in 2023. He led Kellanova, which owned brands like Cheez-Its, Pringles and Pop-Tarts, until Mars Inc. acquired it. Ferrero later purchased WK Kellogg Co., the cereal division.His prior experience includes executive positions at The Nature’s Bounty Co., Coca-Cola Co. and AB InBev.Board Chairman Miguel Patricio endorsed Cahillane’s appointment: “His track record and experience in the industry are unparalleled and will be invaluable as we embark on this next chapter,” he stated.The company’s shares remained stable during Tuesday’s midday trading.
