In a surprising turn of events for the global chocolate and cocoa industry, Barry Callebaut, a leading manufacturer, has announced the immediate resignation of its CEO, Peter Boone. This news has prompted many industry observers and stakeholders to ask: How Old Is Peter Boone? While the company cited personal reasons for his departure, bringing an end to his decade-long tenure, including his leadership of US operations and his appointment as CEO in September 2021, Boone is 57 years old. His exit marks a significant leadership transition for the company as they welcome Peter Feld, formerly CEO of Jacobs Holdings, as his successor.
Peter Feld, the newly appointed CEO of Barry Callebaut, photographed in 2023, ready to lead the company into its next phase of growth.
Peter Feld, a German national, steps into the CEO role with an impressive background spanning over 30 years in the consumer goods market. Barry Callebaut’s management team and board of directors have expressed their enthusiasm for his appointment. Chairman of the Board, Patrick De Maeseneire, highlighted Feld’s extensive experience with international brands, particularly within the food industry, as key assets for driving Barry Callebaut’s sustainable growth.
Feld’s career trajectory showcases leadership roles across various continents and within diverse industries. He has held CEO positions at GfK, a renowned market research firm, and WMF Group, a leader in premium cookware and professional coffee machines. His leadership in these roles focused on enhancing customer centricity, embracing digitization, and fostering strong corporate cultures to ensure future adaptability and success. Prior to these CEO roles, Feld honed his expertise through significant positions at consumer goods giants such as Procter & Gamble, Johnson & Johnson, and Beiersdorf, accumulating decades of invaluable industry experience.
Beyond corporate leadership, Feld has also contributed to the broader industry landscape as the former Vice President of the German Brands Association. In this capacity, he championed the critical importance of sustainable development within the industry, demonstrating a commitment to responsible business practices. Academically, Feld holds a Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from RWTH Aachen, providing a solid foundation for his strategic and analytical approach to business leadership.
Upon his appointment, Peter Feld conveyed his enthusiasm, stating, “It is a great honour to assume responsibility as CEO of Barry Callebaut. Chocolate is a life-long passion, even more so as I started my career in the food industry. I am very much looking forward to bringing my leadership experience to Barry Callebaut and am excited about writing the next chapter of our success story together with the entire team.”
Chairman Patrick De Maeseneire also extended gratitude to Peter Boone for his dedicated service over the past decade. He acknowledged Boone’s significant contributions, including the recent launch of the company’s second-generation chocolate. De Maeseneire explained that Boone’s decision to resign was motivated by a desire to prioritize family and personal life, wishing him well in his future endeavors. As Barry Callebaut embarks on this new chapter with Peter Feld at the helm, the company is poised to leverage his extensive experience to further solidify its position in the global chocolate and cocoa market.
