Movers and Shakers The right people in the right roles can make all the difference


Nestlé announces succession for the Chair of the Board


Paul Bulcke, Chairman of the Board of Directors, will not stand for re-election at Nestlé S.A.’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) on 16 April 2026. After nearly 50 years with the company—14 years on the Executive Board, almost 9 as CEO, and 9 as Chairman— he will step down from Board functions following the AGM. To ensure a smooth transition, the


Board will propose Pablo Isla, current Vice Chairman, for election as Chairman at the 2026 AGM. Bulcke joined Nestlé in 1979, joined


the Executive Board in 2004, and served as CEO from 2008 to 2016 before becoming Chairman in 2017. Isla, former CEO and Chairman of Inditex (2005–


2022), joined Nestlé’s Board in 2018 and has been Vice Chairman and Lead Independent Director since 2024. He also serves on key Board committees. Together with CEO Laurent Freixe,


who took the role in September 2024 and joined the Board in April 2025, the leadership team is well positioned to continue advancing Nestlé’s strategy in Nutrition, Health and Wellness. Bulcke


commented: “It has been a


privilege to be part of Nestlé’s journey. With Pablo Isla, Laurent Freixe, and a strong leadership team, the company is in trusted hands. It’s the right time for me to focus on family and personal interests.” Isla said: “I am honored by the Board’s


Nestlé appoints Scott Coles as new Managing Director for


Confectionery UK & Ireland Nestlé has announced the appointment of Scott Coles as Managing Director


Scott Coles for Nestlé


Confectionery UK & Ireland, effective 1 May 2025. He succeeds Mark Davies, who is retiring after a remarkable 34- year career with Nestlé. Scott will join the UK &


Ireland leadership team, leading efforts to grow market share and enhance value in the confectionery sector. He brings extensive


experience,


Pablo Isla


 Nestlé’s continued success.” Freixe added: “I thank Paul for his trust and


look forward to working with Pablo and the Board as we drive Nestlé’s transformation.”


Ferrero UK & Ireland has appointed Craig Barker as its new Regional Managing Director


He succeeds Philippe Steyaert, who   Barker


confectionery


Africa and overseen Consumer Communications in the region, driving category growth and impactful local campaigns. Scott said: “It’s an honour


having


joined Nestlé in 1997 and held roles in customer management,    category development. He later moved to Australia, where he led the Oceania sales team and served as Managing Director of nutritious snacks. Since 2018, Scott has led


the coffee business across 25 countries in Central and West


46


to lead the UK and Ireland Confectionery business at such an exciting time. With KitKat and Aero celebrating 90 years, I look forward to joining our brilliant team in marking these milestones and supporting our sustainability efforts, including the Income Accelerator Programme, which helps cocoa farming families increase their income and adopt better agricultural practices.”


Kennedy’s Confection June 2025


brings over 30 years industry


of experience,


most of it with Ferrero. He has held senior roles across multiple global markets, including Managing Director   “I began my Ferrero journey as UK Sales Director 20


Craig Barker


years ago, and I’m pleased to return at such a dynamic time,” said Barker. “Ferrero UK & Ireland is growing through strong brands, innovation, and category expansion. I’m excited to work with the talented team to continue bringing joy to our customers.” 


      that under Craig’s leadership, Ferrero UK & Ireland will continue to thrive.” Barker’s appointment underscores Ferrero’s continued


focus on growth and innovation in the region, supported by a leadership team with deep company experience and a strong commitment to brand excellence.


KennedysConfection.com


Page 1  |  Page 2  |  Page 3  |  Page 4  |  Page 5  |  Page 6  |  Page 7  |  Page 8  |  Page 9  |  Page 10  |  Page 11  |  Page 12  |  Page 13  |  Page 14  |  Page 15  |  Page 16  |  Page 17  |  Page 18  |  Page 19  |  Page 20  |  Page 21  |  Page 22  |  Page 23  |  Page 24  |  Page 25  |  Page 26  |  Page 27  |  Page 28  |  Page 29  |  Page 30  |  Page 31  |  Page 32  |  Page 33  |  Page 34  |  Page 35  |  Page 36  |  Page 37  |  Page 38  |  Page 39  |  Page 40  |  Page 41  |  Page 42  |  Page 43  |  Page 44  |  Page 45  |  Page 46  |  Page 47  |  Page 48