Givaudan Announces Succession Plans for CEO, Chairman

On August 27, 2025, Givaudan announced that chief executive officer Gilles Andrier will retire from his position on March 1, 2026, after 20 years of leading theGilles Andrier has worked at Givaudan for 30 years, 20 of which were as chief executive officer. Courtesy of Givaudan company. Christian Stammkoetter, current president of Asia, Middle East and Africa at Danone and member of Givaudan’s executive committee, will succeed Andrier as CEO. 

Under Andrier’s leadership, Givaudan has seen significant growth and portfolio expansion. From 2004 to 2024, the company grew from 5,900 employees to 16,900 employees and sales nearly tripled. Additionally, Andrier has overseen over 20 strategic acquisitions during his time as chief executive officer. 

“It has been an immense privilege and source of joy to lead Givaudan for the last 20 years and be part of its journey for over 30 years,” Andrier said. “I love this company, and its purpose. Over the years, I have been incredibly fortunate to work with, and see develop many talented individuals and teams. I’ve been equally inspired by our clients and am proud to contribute to the success of their brands. As we set out our strategic roadmap for the next five years, it is the right moment to announce the handover to Christian in early 2026, and I wish him every success for the future.”

The company’s board of directors selected Stammkoetter to succeed Andrier nextChristian Stammkoetter, current president of Asia, Middle East and Africa at Danone and member of Givaudan’s executive committee, will succeed Andrier as CEO. Courtesy of Givaudan March. He brings over 25 years of global experience in consumer goods, including personal care, food, beverage and nutrition. 

“I am honored and excited to join Givaudan in early 2026 and to lead this iconic company together with the executive committee and the board of directors,” Stammkoetter said. “Givaudan’s creativity, customer-centricity, unique culture and 250-year heritage in crafting extraordinary scents and tastes inspire me deeply. I am fully aligned to its purpose and look forward to building on Gilles Andrier’s outstanding legacy, driving growth and innovation with our talented teams, customers and partners worldwide.”

In addition to the changes in CEO, Givaudan also announced that chairman of the board Calvin Grieder will step down from his role at the next annual general meeting in March 2026. The board of directors is expected to propose Andrier for election to the role of chairman.