Coca-Cola has named its chief operating officer, Henrique Braun, as the company’s next CEO, effective March 31, 2026. The appointment marks a major leadership transition for the beverage giant as current chairman and CEO James Quincey steps into the role of executive chairman.
Braun, 57, is a three-decade veteran of Coca-Cola and has held leadership positions across Brazil, Latin America, Greater China and South Korea. Before becoming COO earlier this year, he led functions spanning supply chain, innovation, marketing, new business development and bottling operations. Born in California and raised in Brazil, Braun holds degrees in agricultural engineering, science and business administration.
Coca-Cola’s lead independent director, David Weinber,g praised Quincey, 60, as a “transformative leader” who will remain closely involved in the company. During Quincey’s nine-year tenure as CEO, Coca-Cola added more than 10 billion-dollar brands, including BodyArmor and Fairlife, and entered the alcoholic beverages space with Topo Chico Hard Seltzer. He also spearheaded a sweeping 2020 restructuring that halved the company’s portfolio and cut thousands of jobs.
As Coca-Cola navigates tepid demand in key markets and renewed scrutiny of its ingredients, the company recently announced plans—following a push from U.S. President Donald Trump—to launch a cane sugar version of Coca-Cola in place of high-fructose corn syrup.
The board expressed confidence that Braun will drive Coca-Cola’s next phase of global growth. Shares of the company remained flat in after-hours trading.