Coca-Cola chief operating officer Braun to become chief executive

The Coca-Cola Company on Wednesday announced a leadership succession plan and a new executive for 2026.

The Atlanta, Georgia-based beverage company announced that Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer Henrique Braun, 57, would become chief executive from March 31 next year.

Braun will succeed James Quincey, who will transition to executive chairman after nine years as chief executive.

The company said the board also plans to nominate Braun as a director at the company's 2026 annual general meeting.

Braun joined Coca-Cola in 1996 and has progressed through management roles in North America, Europe, Latin America and Asia.

He has served as executive vice president and chief operating officer since January, 2025, overseeing all the company's operating units worldwide.

From 2023 to 2024 Braun served as senior vice president and president, international development, overseeing seven of the company's nine operating units.

Outgoing chief executive James Quincey led the transformation of the company into a total beverage business, adding more than 10 additional billion dollar brands during his tenure.