Nestlé chairman Paul Bulcke to step down early

Group 1 - Nestlé chairman Paul Bulcke is stepping down earlier than planned following the unexpected departure of CEO Laurent Freixe due to an undisclosed relationship with an employee [1][2] - Philipp Navratil, CEO of Nespresso, has been appointed as Freixe's immediate successor, while Pablo Isla will take over as chairman from 1 October [2][6] - Bulcke expressed confidence in the new leadership and emphasized the importance of a timely transition to advance Nestlé's strategy [3] Group 2 - Shareholders criticized Bulcke's leadership, citing instability and underperformance, particularly regarding the handling of the investigation into Freixe's conduct [4] - A top shareholder indicated that Bulcke's resignation was a matter of decency and respect, reflecting a loss of trust in his leadership [4] - In recognition of Bulcke's long service, he has been named honorary chairman following his resignation [5]