Hero Group announces new leadership following CEO retirement
Versloot’s decision to retire follows a period of strong growth, with the company achieving double-digit revenue increases over the past three years.
SWITZERLAND – Hero Group’s chief business officer, Christian Schierbaum, has been appointed as the company’s CEO starting June 1, 2025, succeeding the outgoing CEO Rob Versloot who announced his retirement effective May 31, 2025, after more than a decade in leadership.
During Versloot’s tenure, Hero Group experienced a significant transformation, evolving from a decentralized holding company with diverse product categories to a more integrated and focused organization.
This strategic shift has positioned Hero as a rapidly growing entity within the competitive food industry.
“After consistently growing the company at a double-digit pace over the last three years and taking measures to future-proof it, Hero is now on solid foundations and well-positioned for the future,” he stated.
Schierbaum, who brings over 20 years of experience in fast-moving consumer goods, has held senior roles at Wella AG, Reckitt Benckiser, and Mondelēz across Europe.
He joined Hero in 2019 as chief marketing officer and later became chief business officer, where he expanded his influence within the company.
In his remarks about taking on the new role, Schierbaum expressed enthusiasm for leading Hero into its next phase, with a particular focus on the snacking segment while continuing to grow the entire product portfolio.
“I am very much looking forward to my new role as CEO and working with my great colleagues at Hero. We can now take the next step into the future of Hero, which will have a more focused approach to snacking while continuing to grow the entire portfolio,” he said.
Hero Group chairman Herbert Scheidt noted the timely appointment of Schierbaum, highlighting his extensive experience and understanding of the company.
Scheidt also commended Versloot’s contributions, stating that he has done an outstanding job at Hero, delivering consistently while building and transforming the company for an exciting future.
As Hero Group prepares for this leadership transition, the focus remains on enhancing its brand portfolio, which includes well-known names such as Beech-Nut, Organix, and Deliciously Ella.
The company generated revenues of CHF 1.25 billion (approximately US$1.5B) in 2024, underscoring its strong market presence.
This transition follows Giovanni Ciserani’s resignation from his role as Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hero Group for personal reasons in March. Herbert Scheidt, previously Vice-Chairman of the Board of Directors, was appointed as the new Chairman.
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