Mumbai: In a major leadership transition, The Coca-Cola Company has announced that Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Henrique Braun will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer on March 31, 2026. Braun, 57, has also been nominated for a seat on the company’s board of directors, with his appointment expected to be confirmed at Coca-Cola’s 2026 annual shareholder meeting.
The move marks the end of James Quincey’s nine-year tenure as CEO. Quincey, 60, will shift into the position of Executive Chairman, ensuring his continued involvement in shaping the company’s long-term strategy.
David Weinberg, Coca-Cola’s lead independent director, praised Quincey’s impact, calling him “a transformative leader” who strengthened the company’s global standing and set a clear strategic course for growth.
Weinberg added that Quincey’s new role will enable him to contribute meaningfully to Coca-Cola’s evolution, while expressing confidence in Braun’s ability to accelerate momentum. “Henrique Braun will build on the company’s strong foundation, unlock fresh growth avenues and further reinforce the Coca-Cola system,” he said.
The leadership shift positions Coca-Cola for its next phase of expansion, with Braun set to guide the beverage giant through emerging market opportunities and evolving consumer trends.
