The Ferrero Group has announced a significant leadership restructuring aimed at strengthening its competitive position in the sweet-packaged food sector, according to a recent board of directors decision. The new Ferrero leadership structure, which takes effect September 1, 2026, comes approximately five months after the company completed its $3 billion acquisition of WK Kellogg Co. Two senior executives will assume new roles as part of the organizational changes.
Alessandro Nervegna, currently serving as chief strategy and innovation officer at Ferrero, has been appointed chief executive officer of Ferrero Core. Lapo Civiletti, the current CEO of the Ferrero Group, will transition to president of Ferrero Ice Cream and WK Kellogg Co. while maintaining his position as vice president of Ferrero International.
Strategic Restructuring Following Major Acquisition
The Ferrero leadership structure changes represent a strategic shift designed to optimize operations following the substantial WK Kellogg acquisition. In his new role, Nervegna will oversee the company’s core business categories, including confectionery, biscuits and bakery, and better-for-you products. His appointment leverages nearly 30 years of experience within the organization.
Throughout his tenure at Ferrero, Nervegna has held various positions including chief business officer for international operations, general manager for Ferrero South America, and CEO of MPG at Ferrero. Giovanni Ferrero, president of Ferrero International SA, praised Nervegna’s qualifications in announcing the promotion.
Civiletti’s New Role After Successful Tenure
“His business acumen, strategic mindset and managerial rigor will ensure Ferrero Group maintains its growth trajectory and continues to be a leader in the sweet-packaged food industry,” Giovanni Ferrero said, according to the company announcement. The statement underscores confidence in Nervegna’s ability to guide core operations during this transitional period.
Meanwhile, Civiletti’s reassignment reflects recognition of his contributions while positioning him to oversee key growth areas. He joined Ferrero in 2004 and became the first non-family member appointed CEO of the Ferrero Group in 2017. His leadership has been credited with achieving the company’s ambitious growth targets.
Record Growth Under Current Leadership
According to Giovanni Ferrero, Civiletti has been instrumental in the company’s successful expansion trajectory. “Under his guidance and thanks to his record of delivery, the ambition of doubling the size of the business in less than 10 years has become a reality,” the statement indicated. Civiletti reportedly built a robust management team capable of delivering consistent results.
However, the new structure suggests Ferrero is adapting its executive framework to manage an increasingly complex portfolio. The integration of WK Kellogg Co. into Ferrero’s operations requires dedicated leadership attention, particularly as the company expands beyond its traditional confectionery strengths into cereal and snack categories.
WK Kellogg Integration Continues
Additionally, Ferrero announced in February that Jean-Baptiste Santoul joined WK Kellogg as chief operating officer and would serve as the new head of the company, effective immediately. This appointment preceded the broader organizational restructuring and signals Ferrero’s commitment to maintaining operational continuity at its newest acquisition.
In contrast to traditional acquisition models where acquired companies might see leadership turnover, Ferrero appears to be building a layered management approach. Civiletti’s oversight of both Ferrero Ice Cream and WK Kellogg Co. suggests a strategy of integrating these business units while preserving specialized operational leadership.
The effectiveness of the new organizational structure will become clearer as the September 2026 implementation date approaches and integration efforts with WK Kellogg continue. Industry observers will likely monitor whether this leadership model successfully balances Ferrero’s core confectionery business with its expanding portfolio in frozen desserts and breakfast cereals.