Coca-Cola names Henrique Braun as next CEO

Beverage, vending and micro market operators will see Coca-Cola’s next phase led by Henrique Braun, who has overseen all operating units as COO.

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Coca-Cola

Dec. 11, 2025

2 min read

Coca Cola vending machines in Toronto stock image — Stock image of three Coca-Cola vending machines in Toronto, Canada.

Henrique Braun will take the helm of The Coca-Cola Company as its next chief executive officer, effective on March 31, 2026, as part of a planned leadership change. Braun currently oversees all of Coca-Cola’s operating units worldwide in his role as chief operating officer, a position he has held since Jan. 1, 2025.

Braun will succeed James Quincey, who will move into the role of executive chairman after nine years as CEO. The board of directors also announced plans to nominate Braun for election as a director at the company’s 2026 annual meeting of shareowners.

According to Coca-Cola, Quincey will step down as CEO after leading the company through a transformation into a “total beverage” enterprise. During his tenure, Coca-Cola has added more than 10 brands, each generating more than $1 billion in annual retail sales. The company credits Quincey with strategic and operating model leadership in creating an agile, networked organization with an emphasis on digital capabilities and modernized marketing, including during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As CEO, Braun is expected to build on that foundation. The company said his priorities will include seeking growth opportunities worldwide, moving the business closer to consumer needs and using technology to support performance and expansion across the Coca-Cola system and its bottling partners.

“James Quincey is a transformative leader,” said David Weinberg, Coca-Cola’s lead independent director, in the announcement. He added that Quincey will remain “very active in the business” as executive chairman and said the board is confident that Braun will extend the company’s strengths and “unlock more growth opportunities.”

Braun joined Coca-Cola in Atlanta in 1996 and has progressed through roles in North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia, including positions in supply chain, new business development, marketing, innovation, general management and bottling operations.

“I’m honored to take on this new role and have tremendous appreciation for everything James has done to lead the company,” Braun said in the announcement. He said he will focus on continuing the momentum built with the Coca-Cola system and working with bottlers to “unlock future growth” in a fast-changing global market.