The Coca-Cola Company has announced a significant leadership transition: Henrique Braun, currently Executive Vice President (EVP) and Chief Operating Officer (COO), has been elected as the next Chief Executive Officer (CEO). His appointment will take effect on 31 March 2026.
Braun will succeed James Quincey, who will step into the role of Executive Chairman after serving as Coca-Cola’s CEO for nine impactful years. This transition marks a new phase of strategic growth for one of the world’s most iconic beverage companies.
Leadership Transition: What the Board Decided
Coca-Cola stated that the board of directors unanimously elected Braun to lead the company into its next chapter. The board also plans to nominate him as a director for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareowners.
Why This Transition Matters
- Quincey is credited with transforming Coca-Cola into a “total beverage company.”
- He helped add 10+ new billion-dollar brands to the portfolio.
- Braun is poised to build on this foundation, focusing on growth, innovation, and deeper consumer engagement.
According to David Weinberg, Coca-Cola’s Lead Independent Director, the company is confident that Braun will unlock new opportunities and enhance the strength of the global Coca-Cola system.
Henrique Braun’s Prior Experience and Career Growth
Henrique Braun’s nearly three-decade career at Coca-Cola makes him one of the company’s most experienced global leaders.
Key Career Milestones
- 2025–2026: Executive Vice President & COO
- 2024–2025: Executive Vice President
- 2023–2024: Senior VP & President, International Development; Oversaw 7 of the company’s 9 global operating units
- 2020–2022: President, Latin America Operating Unit
- 2016–2020: President, Brazil Business Unit
- 2013–2016: President for Greater China & South Korea
- 1996–2013: Diverse leadership roles across
- Supply chain
- Marketing and innovation
- New business development
- General management
- Bottling operations
His journey from joining Coca-Cola in 1996 in Atlanta to rising through global roles across North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia reflects unmatched operational and strategic expertise.
James Quincey: A Transformative CEO
Under Quincey’s leadership, Coca-Cola experienced a major transformation:
- Shifted to a consumer-centric, multi-category beverage strategy
- Expanded digital capabilities and sustainability initiatives
- Strengthened partnerships with global bottlers
- Launched and scaled numerous billion-dollar brands
Quincey will continue shaping the company’s direction as Executive Chairman, ensuring continuity and strategic oversight.
Braun’s Vision as the New CEO
Henrique Braun has outlined three core priorities as he steps into the CEO role:
1. Identifying Global Growth Opportunities
He plans to focus on high-potential regions and evolving beverage categories.
2. Getting Closer to Consumer Needs
Consumer preferences are shifting rapidly; Braun wants Coca-Cola to remain agile, relevant, and innovative.
3. Leveraging Technology for Performance
He emphasizes using digital tools to enhance:
- Business intelligence
- Distribution networks
- Product innovation
- System-wide efficiency
His approach blends operational excellence with a strong focus on brand value creation.
Board & Leadership Reactions
Senior leaders expressed confidence in Braun’s ability to guide Coca-Cola into the future:
- David Weinberg praised James Quincey’s legacy and expressed trust in Braun to elevate the company’s performance.
- Braun expressed gratitude and excitement, emphasizing global market opportunities, partnership with bottlers, and continuing the momentum built under Quincey.
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