What Are The Priorities of PepsiCo NA's New CEO?

PepsiCo has revealed a series of organisational changes aimed at advancing its growth strategy and reinforcing its position as a forward-thinking company.

These leadership changes in its North American and Latin American businesses are intended to better unify operations and accelerate investment in technology, artificial intelligence (AI), and sustainable manufacturing and distribution.

Effective from 28 December 2025, Steven Williams, the current CEO of PepsiCo North America, will transition to the role of Executive Vice President and Vice Chairman, Global Chief Commercial Officer and Corporate Affairs.

According to PepsiCo: “Steven will focus on building a unified PepsiCo selling organisation, developing a global strategy to accelerate growth for our away-from-home business and engaging stakeholders to support our growth in the US and around the world.”

This move signals a move towards a more cohesive global commercial strategy.

Ram Krishnan to spearhead North American integration

Succeeding Williams as CEO of PepsiCo North America will be Ram Krishnan, who is set to take on an “aggressive agenda” from 28 December 2025. His focus will be on accelerating the integration of PepsiCo’s Foods and Beverages operations to better serve the needs of both consumers and customers.

Ram has a strong record at PepsiCo, having previously built momentum in the US Beverages sector through portfolio innovation and go-to-market transformation. His broad experience is seen as key to fostering an end-to-end consumer-first mindset.

In a LinkedIn post, Ram explains: “Leadership is not about title or positions; it's about the impact you leave behind.”

“Over my career, I’ve been fortunate to learn from incredible mentors and colleagues who shaped how I think about leadership.”

Ram’s new organisation will include:

• Rachel Ferdinando, who will remain CEO of PepsiCo’s US Foods Category
• Mike Del Pozzo, who will be promoted to President of PepsiCo’s US Beverages Category
• Gregg Roden, who continues to lead the North America Supply Chain team
• Bryan Santee, who will lead the US Commercial and Go-to-Market teams as Chief Commercial Officer US.

A unified strategy for ESG and technology

These structural changes could support PepsiCo’s commitment to its ESG goals. By unifying its North American business and integrating its foods and beverages operations, PepsiCo is better positioned to implement consistent sustainability practices across its value chain.

Ram Krishnan’s leadership is expected to create efficiencies in manufacturing and distribution, a key component of PepsiCo’s environmental impact. The integration also allows for a more streamlined approach to technology and AI investment, which can be used to enhance sustainability measures and reporting.

The newly integrated Texoma region, where PepsiCo is piloting combined Foods and Beverages operations, will also report to Ram, providing a real-world test for this more unified operational model.

Leadership evolution in Latin America

The leadership changes also extend to PepsiCo’s Latin American division. Athina Kanioura will become the CEO of Latin America Foods effective 28 December, in addition to her current role as Chief Strategy & Transformation Officer.

Athina has been central to shaping PepsiCo's global strategy and leading its capabilities transformation, bringing extensive experience in technology.

“I am truly excited to share that I will be stepping into the role of CEO for PepsiCo Latin America Foods while continuing to lead and build upon the legacy of success of our S&T organisation.” Athina wrote on LinkedIn.

Athina follows Paula Santilli, who is retiring after a 35-year career at PepsiCo: “It is an honour to follow in the footsteps of Paula Santilli, whose leadership has shaped Latin America into one of PepsiCo’s most dynamic and resilient regions. I am grateful to be able to count her as a friend and trusted advisor.”

Paula will remain with PepsiCo until July to support the transition. Under Athina’s leadership, Latin America Foods is expected to continue its innovation with digital-first solutions, leveraging AI and piloting new culinary initiatives.​​​​​​​