Heineken names Rafael Oliveira as new CEO amid sales dip, job cuts

Heineken announced on Tuesday that Rafael Oliveira, formerly CEO of coffee giant JDE Peet’s, will take over as chief executive pending shareholder approval, following the sudden exit of Dolf van den Brink after six years marked by mixed performance. The brewer said beer sales fell nearly one percent in the first quarter of 2026, blaming a tougher economic climate and higher energy costs, and announced plans to cut up to 6,000 jobs worldwide. Heineken Nigeria, which produces brands like Star, Gulder and Heineken lager, could see shifts in strategy, pricing or staffing under the new leadership. Oliveira said he aims to accelerate growth, boost productivity and make the company ‘future‑fit’ while winning consumer hearts worldwide. For Nigerian consumers, the leadership shift may influence beer availability and pricing; for employees, the announced job cuts raise concerns about potential layoffs at local operations. Heineken Nigeria has not yet disclosed how the global restructuring will affect its Nigerian workforce.

SOURCE: https://www.channelstv.com/2026/06/23/heineken-names-rafael-oliveira-as-new-ceo/