Advertisement

Former Kellanova CEO takes helm of Kraft Heinz

Former Kellanova CEO takes helm of Kraft Heinz
GRAPHIC COLLAGE BY AVANT FOOD MEDIA
BY: Lily Cota

Lily Cota

PITTSBURGH AND CHICAGO — The Kraft Heinz Co., the global food company with a hand in the baking world, announced Steve Cahillane as its new CEO, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Cahillane, former chair, president and CEO of Kellanova, will also join the company’s board of directors and serve as CEO of Global Taste Elevation Co., one of the companies that will form following the planned separation into two independent, publicly traded companies. Set to close in the latter half of 2026, the separation is designed to maximize Kraft Heinz’s capabilities and brands, allowing the companies to more effectively guide resources toward strategic priorities.

Advertisement

“I am honored to be joining Kraft Heinz as CEO at such a pivotal and exciting time,” Cahillane said. “Like millions of people around the world, I have a deeply personal connection to the Kraft Heinz brands, dating back to my childhood.”

“I’m confident the planned separation will accelerate the company’s ability to compete and win in today’s environment and unlock the immense opportunity in front of us.” — Steve Cahillane | incoming CEO | Kraft Heinz

Advertisement

His experience encompasses major leadership roles at a variety of baking companies. He most recently led Kellanova before its acquisition by Mars, Inc. At the helm of the snacking company, Cahillane drove transformative growth, overseeing the expansion of the company’s global brand portfolio, including Pringles, Cheez-It and Pop-Tarts. He helped to facilitate growth during the separation of the Kellogg Co. and the launch of Kellanova as its global snacking division.

“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,” Cahillane said. “I’m confident the planned separation will accelerate the company’s ability to compete and win in today’s environment and unlock the immense opportunity in front of us. I’m looking forward to working with the team to write this exciting next chapter together.”

Advertisement

Related News

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Popular Articles