Nestlé has confirmed that board vice-chair Pablo Isla has been proposed as its next chair, as current chair Paul Bulcke prepares to step down at the company’s 2025 annual general meeting.

The announcement, made on Wednesday (18 June) in a company statement, marks the end of an era for Bulcke, whose career with the KitKat and Nescafé-owner spans more than four decades.

He joined the Swiss-based group in 1979 and rose through the ranks across markets in Europe, Latin America and the US before becoming CEO in 2008, and then chair in 2017.

“It has been a true privilege and a pleasure to be part of Nestlé’s journey over so many years, providing me with enriching experiences and responsibilities,” said Bulcke.

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It is understood Nestlé’s proposal to elevate ex-Zara boss Isla, who joined Nestlé’s board in 2018, to the chair role represents a break from company tradition.

Historically, Nestlé has promoted its own CEOs to be chair, but Isla previously worked at Spanish fashion group Inditex, where he served as CEO and later chair,  bringing outside influence to the helm.

In a statement, Isla thanked the board for his nomination, adding: “I am enthusiastic about taking on this new role, as I fully identify with Nestle’s Nutrition, Health and Wellness strategy and its Creating Shared Value approach to business.”

The company stated that the proposed succession plan will “allow time for a smooth transition and orderly handover” ahead of the 2025 AGM.

The leadership handover will complete a broader overhaul at the top of Nestlé, which appointed company veteran Laurent Freixe as CEO last year following the exit of Mark Schneider.