Henrique Braun will become Coca-Cola’s chief executive officer in March 2026, succeeding James Quincey, the company announced. Braun, currently chief operating officer, will also join the board, while Quincey will remain as executive chairman to ensure a smooth transition.
Both Braun, 57, and Quincey, 60, started at Coca-Cola in 1996. Braun, who became COO earlier this year, will focus on expanding growth opportunities, meeting consumer needs, and enhancing the company’s technology.
Quincey’s tenure since 2017 included restructuring the bottling system and shifting the product mix towards healthier options. Coca-Cola has faced slowing demand for sodas, reflected in a 1% rise in global unit case volume last quarter after a prior decline.
Quincey noted that “lower-income consumers have bought fewer of our drinks,” prompting smaller, affordable product offerings. Meanwhile, higher-end brands like Smartwater and Fairlife continue to outperform, indicating consumer interest in premium products.
Coca-Cola maintains a lead over PepsiCo, with its flagship cola remaining America’s top-selling soda and Sprite overtaking Pepsi for third place. The company’s shares have gained nearly 13% this year, compared to a more than 1% drop for PepsiCo. Coca-Cola’s market value now exceeds $300 billion, well above PepsiCo’s roughly $200 billion.
Braun’s experience is expected to help the company navigate changing tastes, sustainability challenges, and digital innovation as it aims to sustain its market leadership.