Hein Schumacher (ex-Unilever) becomes CEO of Barry Callebaut

On January 26, former Unilever CEO Hein Schumacher will take up the position of CEO at Barry Callebaut AG. He succeeds Peter Feld, who is leaving the company after three years.

Results under pressure

Now that the “BC Next Level” transformation program is nearing completion, Peter Feld is leaving Barry Callebaut to pursue other career opportunities, the company said in a press release. Hein Schumacher, former CEO of FrieslandCampina, will succeed him. He is coming on board during turbulent times.

In recent years, the chocolate manufacturer has streamlined its organization, cutting 2,500 jobs worldwide, including around 500 in Belgium. This restructuring operation was accompanied by a €500 million investment plan. However, high cocoa prices continue to put pressure on Barry Callebaut’s results. The chocolate giant is reportedly considering spinning off its cocoa division.