Nestlé names Jeff Hamilton as new CEO of Zone Americas

SWITZERLAND – Nestlé has appointed Jeff Hamilton as the new Chief Executive Officer of Zone Americas, effective July 1, 2025, marking a significant leadership transition for the global food and beverage giant. 

Hamilton, a seasoned executive with over three decades of experience, will also join the company’s Group Executive Board, replacing Steve Presley, who is set to retire after a 30-year tenure.

Hamilton’s appointment follows a strategic restructuring that merged Nestlé’s Latin America and North America units in October 2024, aimed at streamlining operations and boosting growth in the Americas. 

Currently serving as Business Head of Nestlé Purina PetCare Zone Europe, Hamilton brings a wealth of expertise to his new role. 

He began his career at Purina in the United States in 1991 as a sales representative and has since held key leadership positions across three continents. 

His notable roles include President and CEO of Nestlé Canada, President of Nestlé’s Foods Division in the U.S., and Vice President of Marketing at Nestlé Purina Asia, Oceania, and Africa.

Laurent Freixe, CEO of Nestlé, praised Hamilton’s track record, stating, “Jeff has consistently shown exceptional performance and a remarkable ability to inspire his teams. We are confident in his leadership to drive our growth strategy in the Americas.” 

The company expects Hamilton to leverage his deep industry knowledge to strengthen its market presence in the region, which includes major brands like Nescafé, KitKat, and Purina.

Steve Presley, the outgoing CEO of Zone Americas, will step down from the Executive Board and retire on April 30, 2025. 

Freixe expressed gratitude for Presley’s contributions, saying, “Steve’s dedication over three decades has been invaluable, and we wish him the best in his future endeavors.” 

Presley’s leadership saw Nestlé navigate complex market dynamics, including supply chain challenges and shifting consumer preferences toward healthier products.

The leadership change comes as Nestlé focuses on simplifying its operations and enhancing consumer engagement across the Americas. 

Hamilton’s international experience and proven ability to motivate teams are seen as critical to advancing these goals. 

The company, headquartered in Vevey, Switzerland, remains a leader in the global food industry, with a portfolio spanning coffee, pet care, and nutrition products. 

As Hamilton prepares to take the helm, Nestlé aims to build on its legacy of innovation and sustainability in one of its most vital markets.

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