Ahold Delhaize has announced that Claude Sarrailh (pictured), CEO of Ahold Delhaize Europe & Indonesia, will leave the company to pursue a new leadership opportunity at Italy’s Esselunga Spa, where he is set to become Chief Executive Officer. The company confirmed that a six-month notice period will apply while the search for a successor is already underway.
Sarrailh joined Ahold Delhaize in 2024 after serving at Metro Group in Düsseldorf, Germany, where he was a member of the Management Board and held the role of Chief Customer and Merchandise Officer. During his tenure, he contributed to strengthening the retailer’s European leadership structure, improving operational performance, and advancing own-brand and joint sourcing strategies across the business.
Frans Muller, President and CEO of Ahold Delhaize, praised Sarrailh’s contribution to the group and highlighted his impact on collaboration and scale efficiencies. “I want to thank Claude for his contribution to Ahold Delhaize, and I have confidence in our leadership team to continue delivering our strategy,” he said. “Claude has been a valued colleague and leader, with a keen eye for leveraging scale across the company, including such areas as sourcing and digital, while fostering collaboration across markets. We appreciate his perspective in our Management Board discussions and wish him well for the future,” Muller added.
Commenting on his departure, Sarrailh said the decision followed “a rewarding time” with the company and underlined the strength of Ahold Delhaize’s teams and brands. “After a rewarding time with Ahold Delhaize, I have decided to accept a new opportunity outside the company,” said Sarrailh. “From the first day onwards, I have been impressed by the exceptional drive, the talent, and the full dedication of all the Ahold Delhaize teams that I have had the privilege to work with. I am proud of the strong results we have delivered and the progress we have made to better leverage our Group scale in support of our great local brands and their customers. I leave with great respect for the company and full confidence in its future. Until my departure, my focus remains on the implementation of our strategy while working towards a seamless transition.”
Wiebe Draijer, Chair of the Supervisory Board of Ahold Delhaize, also acknowledged Sarrailh’s leadership and his commitment to ensuring continuity during the transition process. “I am grateful for the leadership and contribution Claude has brought to Ahold Delhaize during his time with the company,” he said. “Claude is a highly regarded leader, and we appreciate his commitment to remain fully engaged to support an orderly transition. On behalf of the Supervisory Board, I would like to thank him for his dedication and wish him success in his next role.”
L’articolo Ahold Delhaize Europe & Indonesia CEO Claude Sarrailh to Leave for Esselunga proviene da Italianfood.net.