2025 Summer Investor Conference
Unveiling our new 2030 strategy and succession plan
On 27 August 2025, we hosted our traditional summer investor conference unveiling our new 2030 strategy and the CEO and Chairman succession plans.
The hybrid event brought together more than 80 participants in Zurich and over 100 online via live webcast.
Opening the conference, CEO Gilles Andrier shared important news on CEO and Board succession plans. After 20 years at the helm of Givaudan, Gilles will retire as CEO on 1 March 2026. Christian Stammkoetter, currently serving as President Asia, Middle East and Africa at Danone, has been appointed to succeed him, bringing strong leadership and proven expertise to continue our growth journey.
Chairman of the Board, Calvin Grieder, will also step down at the March 2026 Annual General Meeting after 12 years of dedicated service. Gilles will be proposed for election as Chairman at the 2026 AGM, bringing continuity and his deep industry experience to provide strategic oversight at the Board level.
Gilles reflected on our strong 2025 half year results, underscoring our confidence that we will meet, and likely exceed, our like-for-like sales growth target and deliver on the >12% free cash flow margin target while advancing our non‑financial commitments. He highlighted 2021–2025 as a period in which staying true to our strengths and delivering high‑value, creative solutions enabled us to thrive in a challenging market.
Introducing the 2030 strategy, Gilles outlined a five‑year plan focused on three growth drivers and three growth enablers, all rooted in our purpose. Over the next five years, we will strengthen sustainable growth with our customers and enhance our impact.
“Our 2030 strategy launches at a very interesting moment, as there is still more to do. We are restless in our pursuit to grow further – even more responsibly, and with even greater impact.”
Gilles Andrier, Chief Executive Officer
Antoine Khalil, President of Taste & Wellbeing, shared plans to lead the Food Experience space and reinforce market leadership in flavour and taste. Maurizio Volpi, President of Fragrance & Beauty, set ambitions to be the creative partner of choice across home, personal and fabric care, and the full beauty spectrum — from fine fragrances to skin care and make‑up.
CFO Stewart Harris closed with financial metrics supporting our strategic goals. The event concluded with a lively Q&A session and a networking lunch.