Former Kellogg leader named CEO of Kraft Heinz ahead of split

Former Kellogg Co. leader Steve Cahillane has been named CEO of the Kraft Heinz Co. ahead of its split into two companies in 2026.

Cahillane replaces Carlos Abrams-Rivera, who will step down Jan. 1 and serve as an advisor to the company until March 6. Cahillane will also join the company’s board and serve as CEO of Global Taste Elevation Co., which will focus on condiments and sauces and include brands such as Heinz, Philadelphia and Kraft Mac & Cheese.

The other half of the split Kraft Heinz Co. will be North American Grocery Co., a scaled portfolio of North America staples including Oscar Meyer, Kraft Singles and Lunchables.

The split is expected to be finalized in the second half of 2026.

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

“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.”

When the Kellog Co. split into two companies in 2023, Cahillane served as chair, president and CEO of snack company Kellanova until that company’s acquisition by Mars Inc. in early December.

Cahillane has also held senior executive roles at The Nature’s Bounty Co., The Coca-Cola Co. and AB InBev.

“Steve is uniquely qualified to lead this organization into the future, and we are delighted he will be taking on the role of CEO,” Miguel Patricio, current Kraft Heinz board chair, said in the statement. “His track record and experience in the industry are unparalleled and will be invaluable as we embark on this next chapter.”

As part of the leadership transition, John T. Cahill, vice chair of Kraft Heinz’s board, who previously served as Kraft CEO prior to its 2015 combination with Heinz, will become chair. Cahill will continue to lead the board’s separation committee, which he has led since its formation earlier this year.

Patricio will continue to serve on the board of Kraft Heinz, according to the statement. The board will initiate a global search for a CEO to lead North American Grocery Co.