Kraft Heinz announced Tuesday that Steve Cahillane, the former CEO of Kellanova, will take the helm of the company as it prepares for its planned split next year.
Cahillane will officially become chief executive on Jan. 1 and, following the division, will lead the new company named Global Taste Elevation, which will focus on high-growth brands including Heinz, Philadelphia, and Kraft Mac & Cheese.
Cahillane previously guided Kellogg through its 2023 breakup, separating its slower-growing North American cereal business from its faster-growing snack unit, which was later renamed Kellanova and acquired by Mars for $35.9 billion.
Carlos Abrams-Rivera, the outgoing CEO of Kraft Heinz, had initially been slated to lead the second company, North American Grocery, but will now serve as an advisor through March 6 while the board searches for a permanent chief executive. This division will include grocery staples such as Oscar Mayer and Kraft Singles.
In a board leadership change, John Cahill, who led Kraft during its merger with Heinz ten years ago, will take over as chair of the board, replacing Miguel Patricio. Kraft Heinz anticipates the corporate separation will be completed in the second half of 2026.