Oatly Group is starting this week off with big news as it has announced a key leadership transition. The oat drink company revealed that current Global President Jean-Christophe Flatin will become its newest Chief Executive Officer effective June 1, 2023, as Toni Petersson takes on the role of Co-Chairman of the Board of Directors.
“I am humbled and honored by the opportunity to lead this great organization. Oatly is a once-in-a-generation company with the teams, purpose, and products that are second to none. We have all the elements in place to strengthen our leadership position in multiple markets and fuel the societal shift to a more sustainable plant-based food system,” commented Flatin. “I would like to thank Toni and the Board of Directors for their confidence and trust, and our employees for welcoming me so warmly. I’m excited to continue to partner with our entire leadership team to unlock Oatly’s full potential and drive long-term shareholder value.”
Flatin joined Oatly a year ago, according to a release, and has led several initiatives with Chief Operating Officer Daniel Ordoñez that have had positive impacts on the company. These include simplifying Oatly’s organizational structure, driving cost and resource efficiencies across all regions, and instituting a new operating model that sets the stage for future profitable growth.
The leader has also brought over 30 years of experience at Mars with him, including managing high-growth brands and leading global organizations.
“Jean-Christophe is a proven leader and the ideal person to help usher Oatly in our next phase. He has already strengthened our company for the better by putting our supply chain back on firmer footing, renewing our focus on innovation, and enabling our organization to go on offense to drive profitable growth,” remarked Petersson. “I’m incredibly proud of what Oatly has accomplished as a Company over the last decade—building an entirely new category, growing our portfolio of innovative products, and establishing a global brand with a singularly unique identity and voice. I look forward to continuing to work with Jean-Christophe, the Board, and the entire Oatly team to realize our long-term mission to make it easier for people to live healthier lives without recklessly taxing the planet’s resources.”
To read more, including comments from Eric Melloul, Co-Chairman of the Board, click here.
Cheers to both leaders on their new roles!