In a significant leadership change, Nestlé has announced that Jeff Hamilton will assume the role of chief executive officer for Zone Americas starting July 1, 2025. This development coincides with Steve Presley's impending retirement after nearly three decades at the company. Presley, who currently serves as the CEO of Zone Americas and executive vice president, will officially step down on April 30, 2025. Laurent Freixe, CEO of Nestlé, expressed gratitude for Presley’s contributions to the company’s strategic growth in the region. Meanwhile, Hamilton’s appointment is expected to bolster Nestlé’s expansion efforts, particularly in the burgeoning plant-based food market.

As Nestlé undergoes this leadership transition, the focus shifts to Jeff Hamilton, whose career within the organization spans over three decades. Since joining Nestlé in 1991, Hamilton has demonstrated a track record of success in various leadership roles. Most recently, he served as the CEO of Purina PetCare Zone Europe, where his innovative strategies significantly boosted growth in the pet care industry. His earlier positions include leading Nestlé Canada as president and CEO, as well as overseeing marketing initiatives for Nestlé Purina across Asia, Oceania, and Africa.

Hamilton’s extensive experience in sales and marketing makes him an ideal candidate to steer Nestlé’s strategic objectives in the Americas. With the plant-based food sector experiencing rapid growth, his leadership is poised to capitalize on emerging consumer trends. Nestlé aims to leverage its resources and expertise under Hamilton’s guidance to remain competitive in this evolving market.

Laurent Freixe emphasized the importance of Hamilton’s appointment, highlighting his ability to inspire teams and drive performance. An MBA graduate from the Kellogg School of Management at Northwestern University, Hamilton brings both academic rigor and practical expertise to his new role. The company anticipates that his leadership will play a pivotal role in achieving sustained growth in Zone Americas.

As Steve Presley departs after a distinguished career marked by dedication and achievement, Nestlé looks forward to a new chapter under Jeff Hamilton’s leadership. The company remains committed to advancing its strategic priorities and meeting the demands of modern consumers in the Americas region.