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Barry Callebaut AG announced today that its Board of Directors has appointed Hein Schumacher as Chief Executive Officer, effective January 26, 2026. Schumacher will succeed Peter Feld, who will leave the company after nearly three years at the helm to pursue other career opportunities.
The decision comes as Barry Callebaut nears completion of its sweeping BC Next Level transformation program - an initiative that has reshaped the group’s cost base, operating discipline and balance sheet during one of the most volatile periods the chocolate industry has ever faced.
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A Board-Led Transition at a Turning Point
In a statement accompanying the announcement, Chairman Patrick De Maeseneire said the Board conducted an extensive global search before selecting Schumacher, citing his “unique blend of expertise in food, B2C/B2B and ingredients” and a track record of shareholder value creation.