Centrale Danone announced on June 22, 2026, the appointment of Imad Bakkali as Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO), effective July 1, 2026. He succeeds Hervé Barrere, who is stepping down for personal family reasons.
Imad Bakkali previously served as CEO of Centrale Danone from 2015 to 2021, during which he oversaw significant growth and digital transformation. He returns to lead the company after a period away, bringing extensive experience in the Moroccan dairy and food sector.
Hervé Barrere had been at the helm since 2021. The transition is described as amicable, with Barrere leaving to focus on family matters. The company expressed gratitude for his contributions and confidence in Bakkali's leadership for the next phase.