Coca-Cola Overhauls Leadership, Launches New Role to Boost Digital Transformation

The Coca-Cola Company has announced significant leadership changes aimed at enhancing digital transformation and closer consumer connections. These changes will take effect on March 31, 2026, and are intended to foster future growth.

Coca-Cola’s New Leadership Structure

Henrique Braun, currently the Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer, will be promoted to CEO, following James Quincey, who will transition to the role of Executive Chairman of the Board. Braun noted the importance of understanding consumer needs to drive growth.

Creation of the Chief Digital Officer Role

To spearhead digital initiatives, Coca-Cola is establishing the position of Chief Digital Officer. Sedef Salingan Sahin, the president of the Eurasia and Middle East operating unit, will assume this role. Sahin’s experience and leadership in both developing and developed markets make her well-suited to lead this digital transformation.

Key Responsibilities and Transition

• Sedef Salingan Sahin: To oversee the integration of digital strategies across the company.
• John Murphy: Will transition digital strategy oversight to Sahin while retaining his role as President and Chief Financial Officer.
• Manolo Arroyo: Promoted to Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing and Customer Commercial Officer.

Murphy will continue to manage key functions including Global Strategy and Investor Relations, collaborating closely with Braun to execute the company’s growth agenda.

Operational Changes to Enhance Market Focus

Additionally, Coca-Cola is reconfiguring its market operations to enhance focus on Asian, African, and Middle Eastern markets. Sanket Ray will lead the India and Southwest Asia operating unit, while Claudia Lorenzo will oversee the Eurasia and Middle East operating unit.

Supporting Leadership and Transitional Roles

• Sanket Ray: Overseeing markets in India, Southwest Asia, Greater China, Mongolian, Japan, and South Korea.
• Claudia Lorenzo: Managing markets in Eurasia, Middle East, ASEAN, and South Pacific.
• Robin Halpern: Appointed as Braun’s chief of staff to support the leadership transition.

These appointments reflect Coca-Cola’s strategy to adapt to dynamic market conditions and better leverage their leadership’s regional expertise.

About Coca-Cola

The Coca-Cola Company operates as a total beverage entity with a product range sold in over 200 countries. The company aims to refresh the world while positively impacting communities and the environment. Their extensive portfolio includes popular brands across various beverage categories.

As Coca-Cola undergoes these leadership changes, the focus remains on embracing digital transformation to meet the evolving demands of consumers worldwide.