Hein Schumacher, former CEO of Unilever, has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Barry Callebaut, the world’s largest chocolate and cocoa products manufacturer. His leadership begins on January 26, 2026, marking a pivotal moment for the company as it navigates volatile cocoa markets and ambitious growth targets.
Schumacher brings over two decades of experience in global consumer goods and food production. He rose through the ranks at Unilever, serving in senior finance and operational roles before being appointed CEO in 2023. His tenure at Unilever was characterized by strategic transformation, operational efficiency initiatives, and a focus on sustainable growth, earning him recognition as a forward-thinking leader in the consumer goods sector.
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Barry Callebaut, which supplies chocolate and cocoa products to major confectionery brands worldwide, is entering a critical phase. Recent challenges including fluctuating cocoa prices, changing consumer preferences, and global supply chain pressures have put the company at a crossroads. Schumacher’s appointment underscores the board’s commitment to strategic growth, operational excellence, and industry leadership. Chairman Patrick De Maeseneire highlighted Schumacher’s extensive experience in global operations, stating that he is the right leader to “drive Barry Callebaut’s next phase of customer focus, innovation, and financial strength.”
The appointment also signals the company’s focus on long-term growth. Under Schumacher’s leadership, Barry Callebaut is expected to enhance its market strategies, strengthen supplier and customer relationships, and leverage innovation to drive competitive advantage. His experience in managing large-scale operations and leading organizational transformations will be critical in positioning the company for sustainable growth in a competitive and evolving market.
Beyond corporate performance, Schumacher’s leadership reflects the growing importance of thought leadership in the global food industry. Companies like Barry Callebaut are increasingly required to balance profitability with sustainability, responsible sourcing, and innovation areas where Schumacher has demonstrated expertise. His vision is anticipated to influence industry standards and set new benchmarks for operational excellence, ethical sourcing, and market responsiveness.
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Investors and industry observers have reacted positively to the announcement, with Barry Callebaut shares rising on the news. This reflects confidence in Schumacher’s ability to deliver strategic growth while navigating complex market dynamics. As the company prepares to expand its global footprint and deepen its customer engagement, Schumacher’s leadership marks a transformative moment that combines experience, vision, and a proven track record of turning strategy into tangible results.
With Hein Schumacher at the helm, Barry Callebaut is poised not only to consolidate its market leadership but also to chart a new path in innovation, sustainability, and global competitiveness reinforcing its position as a benchmark for excellence in the chocolate and cocoa industry.
