Leadership Shift Signals Strategic Focus (Image Credits: Unsplash)
The Italian confectionery powerhouse Ferrero has streamlined its leadership structure to better navigate its rapidly diversifying portfolio.
Leadership Shift Signals Strategic Focus
Ferrero surprised industry observers by dissolving the group CEO position, a move effective from September 2025.[1][2]
Instead, the company appointed two new senior executives who report directly to Giovanni Ferrero, the president of Ferrero International S.A. This change aimed to sharpen oversight of core business segments amid aggressive expansion. Lapo Civiletti, who served as group CEO since 2017, transitioned to president of Ferrero Ice Cream and WK Kellogg. Alessandro Nervegna stepped up as CEO of Ferrero Core, handling confectionery, biscuits, bakery, and better-for-you products.
The restructuring reflected the company’s evolution from a chocolate-centric firm to a broader player in packaged sweets and snacks. Both appointees brought decades of internal experience to their roles.[1]
Mergers and Acquisitions Fuel the Change
Ferrero’s growth spurt through deals necessitated this realignment. The company acquired WK Kellogg in a $3.1 billion transaction last year, bringing iconic U.S. cereals like Froot Loops and Raisin Bran into its fold.[1]
Earlier purchases included Wells Enterprises in 2022 for ice cream expansion and a majority stake in Spain’s ICFC in 2019. The firm also snapped up protein-bar maker Power Crunch early last year and UK-based Eat Natural in 2020. Affiliated entities handled additional buys, such as Ferrara Candy Company’s acquisition of French sweets maker CPK Group and CTH Invest’s purchases of Nonni’s Bakery and Michel et Augustin.
- WK Kellogg: $3.1bn U.S. cereals
- Wells Enterprises: 2022 ice cream
- ICFC: 2019 Spanish ice cream
- Power Crunch: Recent protein bars
- Eat Natural: 2020 UK bars and granola
Executives Earn High Praise from Chairman
Giovanni Ferrero commended Civiletti’s tenure, noting his role in doubling the business size in under a decade. “Mr. Lapo Civiletti has been crucial to the successful journey of the Ferrero Group,” Ferrero stated.[1]
He highlighted Nervegna’s strategic skills: “His business acumen, strategic mindset and managerial rigor will ensure Ferrero Group maintains its growth trajectory.”[1] Civiletti, a 30-year veteran since 2004, became the first non-family CEO in 2017. Nervegna matched that loyalty with his own long service.
Solid Financials Underpin Bold Moves
For the financial year ending in August 2025, Ferrero reported consolidated turnover of €19.3 billion, a 4.6% increase excluding WK Kellogg’s contribution. The company kept profit figures private, focusing instead on revenue momentum.[1]
This performance underscored the success of its expansion strategy. The new structure positioned Ferrero to compete more fiercely in the sweet-packaged food sector. Observers viewed the changes as a proactive step toward sustained dominance.[2]
Key Takeaways:
- Ferrero eliminated its group CEO role to create specialized leadership for ice cream/cereals and core sweets.
- M&A deals like WK Kellogg propelled portfolio diversification.
- Turnover hit €19.3bn, up 4.6%, supporting ambitions to lead packaged sweets.
Ferrero’s management rejig marked a pivotal adaptation to its transformed business landscape, blending family oversight with expert execution. As the company eyes further growth, this model could set a template for other acquisitive food giants. What do you think of Ferrero’s leadership pivot? Share your views in the comments.
