In a significant corporate leadership announcement, Coca-Cola revealed Wednesday that Chief Operating Officer Henrique Braun will ascend to the chief executive role effective March 31, 2026. This carefully orchestrated transition will see current Chairman and CEO James Quincey move into the executive chairman position, ensuring continuity in the beverage giant’s strategic direction.
The 57-year-old Braun brings three decades of extensive company experience to his future role, having most recently served as COO since earlier this year. His comprehensive career at Coca-Cola includes leadership positions across multiple international markets including Brazil, Latin America, Greater China and South Korea. Braun’s diverse expertise spans supply chain management, new business development, marketing innovation, and bottling operations management.
Born in California and raised in Brazil, Braun’s educational background includes an agricultural engineering degree from the University Federal of Rio de Janeiro, complemented by a master of science degree from Michigan State University and an MBA from Georgia State University.
David Weinberg, Coca-Cola’s lead independent director, praised outgoing CEO Quincey as a transformative leader who will maintain an active role in the business. During Quincey’s nine-year tenure, the company expanded its portfolio with over 10 additional billion-dollar brands including BodyArmor and Fairlife, while strategically entering the alcoholic beverage market with Topo Chico Hard Seltzer in 2021.
Quincey’s leadership included a significant 2020 restructuring that streamlined operations by reducing the company’s brand portfolio by half and implementing workforce reductions. This strategic move aimed to focus investments on high-growth products such as Simply and Minute Maid juices.
As this leadership transition unfolds, Coca-Cola faces ongoing challenges including subdued consumer demand in key markets like the United States and Europe, along with increasing scrutiny of product ingredients. Responding to market pressures, the company recently announced plans to introduce a cane sugar version of its flagship cola, moving away from high-fructose corn syrup.
Weinberg expressed board confidence in Braun’s ability to leverage the company’s strengths and identify global growth opportunities. Market reaction remained neutral following the announcement, with Coca-Cola shares holding steady in after-hours trading.