Heineken CEO steps down: brewer begins search for successor

After nearly six years at the helm, CEO and Chairman Dolf van den Brink has announced his departure from Heineken. He will remain in his position until the end of May and will then continue to be available to the company as an advisor for another eight months.

“The right moment”

Van den Brink, in consultation with the Supervisory Board, has concluded that this is the right time to hand over his responsibilities, according to the brewer’s press release. He will step down on May 31. The company is starting a search process to appoint a successor.

“After six years as CEO and more than 28 years at Heineken, I believe this is the right time to hand over the leadership as the company prepares for the next phase of the EverGreen strategy,” says van den Brink. “The past few years have been marked by profound changes, with Heineken undergoing a transformation and now reaching a stage where a transfer of leadership will best serve the company in the further implementation of its long-term ambitions. In the coming months, I will remain fully focused on the disciplined execution of our strategy and on a smooth transition.”

Heineken has been struggling with disappointing sales for some time and announced a new five-year strategic plan in October, whereby the company will focus on its five strongest beer brands: Heineken, Tiger, Amstel, Desperados, and Birra Moretti. In addition, the company will save another 500 million per year between 2025 and 2030. Heineken has announced a restructuring of its headquarters in Amsterdam, which will affect approximately 400 jobs.