Coca-Cola Company (KO) announced that its board of directors has set a succession plan for the beverage giant. Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Henrique Braun was selected to become Coca-Cola’s (KO) CEO on March 31, 2026, to succeed James Quincey, who will transition to executive chairman after serving as CEO for nine years. Braun will be up for election as a director at the 2026 annual shareholders meeting.
Braun joined Coca‑Cola (KO) in 1996 in Atlanta and progressed through roles of increasing responsibilities in North America, Europe, Latin America, and Asia. Those positions included supply chain, new business development, marketing, innovation, general management, and bottling operations. Braun has served as EVP and COO at the Atlanta-based company since January 1, 2025, overseeing all the company’s operating units worldwide.
As CEO, Braun is expected to focus on opportunities to build on the strong foundation established by Quincey. His stated priorities include seeking the best growth opportunities worldwide, driving the company to get even closer to consumer needs, and leveraging technology as an enabler of business performance and growth. Braun has been viewed by analysts as a likely successor to Quincey.