In a shock move, Nestlé has fired its head of executive, Laurent Freixe, after only being on the job for one year. On September 1, 2025, the Swiss food multinational stated that Freixe was terminated right away for failing to disclose a romantic affair with a direct report. This violation of the company’s policies rocked the business world with the prompt appointment of Philipp Navratil as the new chief executive officer. Navratil, who was heading Nestlé’s coffee operation, takes over to ensure continuity in this transition.
The board inquiry discovered that Freixe covered up the romance, which contravened Nestlé’s code of conduct. The action was termed necessary by Chairman Paul Bulcke to maintain high standards. Freixe, a veteran of 40 years at the company, had succeeded Mark Schneider in September 2024. His abrupt departure is an indication of how companies are enforcing discipline on workplace love affairs that may lead to conflicts.
Nestle CEO Laurent Freixe News: A Year of Challenges Ends Abruptly
Recent stories on Freixe have centred around his brief tenure as leader. He championed health foods and sustainability growth, but sales fell in some segments because of high costs. Last month, he addressed gatherings with speeches on regenerative agriculture and reducing plastic usage. Today, the world’s attention is on his own misstep that has opened discussions on ethics in the CEO role. Other CEOs have experienced comparable collapses, indicating a trend in business accountability.
Nestlé’s CEO, Laurent Freixe, Water: Addressing Bottled Water Controversies
Under his leadership, Freixe confronted continuous criticism of Nestlé’s water business. The firm, a large player in packaged water such as Perrier, has faced criticism for tapping public sources. Freixe backed initiatives to make water operations more sustainable, such as improved recycling and reduced waste. Speaking in interviews, he emphasised responsible sourcing against a backdrop of climate concerns. Although not directly related to his resignation, these concerns mounted on his shoulders.
Nestle CEO Laurent Freixe Net Worth: Financial Legacy Unveiled
Freixe’s net worth is estimated at around $4 million as of July 2025. Accumulated over decades working at Nestlé, it encompasses shares and bonuses from his climb through sales and zone management. His wealth is evidence of a successful career, but the removal could impact future payments.
Nestle CEO Laurent Freixe Salary: Executive Pay in the Limelight
As CEO, Freixe’s fixed salary was approximately CHF 2 million, with overall compensation potentially hitting CHF 7 million, including bonuses. Previously, as executive vice president, he received around CHF 5.5 million annually. Nestlé’s remuneration reports reveal long-term incentives linked to performance, now in the process of being reviewed following his resignation.
Nestlé CEO Laurent Freixe Family: A Private Life
Freixe, who was born in 1962 in Paris to engineering parents, maintains family information low-key. He majored in marketing at EDHEC Business School. There is little information about his private life since he dedicated himself to work in public.
Laurent Freixe Nestlé LinkedIn: Professional Insights Online
On LinkedIn, Freixe posted news of Nestlé’s innovations, such as air fryers, increasing home cooking. With more than 58,000 followers, his account showcased leadership in food trends and sustainability before the scandal.
This Nestlé shake-up questions trust and regulations within large firms. As Navratil steps in, the company is looking to return to growth and stabilise.
FAQs
When did Laurent Freixe assume the role of CEO of Nestlé?
Laurent Freixe assumed the role of CEO of Nestlé in September 2024.
How much does the CEO of Nestlé earn?
The CEO of Nestlé earns an estimated salary of $2,900,000 with a general range of $1,900,000 to $4,600,000.
Who is the replacement for the CEO of Nestlé?
Philipp Navratil is the replacement of the CEO of Nestlé, Laurent Freixe.
What is Laurent Freixe’s salary?
Laurent Freixe’s remuneration package as CEO of Nestlé will reportedly be in the range of CHF 8-10 million (around USD 9-11 million).
Who owns Nestlé today?
Nestlé S.A. is not an entirely owned entity but a publicly held company where institutional investors and the Nestlé Group itself are the biggest investors, with Switzerland also being a major source of capital.
Who is the new MD of Nestlé?
The new MD (Chairman and Managing Director) of Nestlé India is Manish Tiwary, who took over the position on 1 August 2025 from Suresh Narayanan.
Did Nestlé CEO support packaged food?
Yes, Nestlé CEO Laurent Freixe supported packaged food, saying it is “very important for mankind” since it offers safe, high-quality food, diminishes food waste, and helps combat food insecurity.
