Heineken has named the top executive of coffee brand Peet’s as its next CEO, the Dutch brewing giant announced Tuesday.
Rafael Oliveira succeeds Dolf van den Brink, who announced plans to step down at the world’s no. 2 brewer in January. Oliveira had served as CEO at Peet’s since 2024 and led the company through its acquisition by Keurig Dr Pepper; he was poised to lead the beverage giant’s coffee business as it split into separate, independent companies focused on coffee and “refreshment beverages,” respectively. Oliveira also spent a decade at Kraft Heinz before joining Peet’s.
Heineken said that its supervisory board will nominate Oliveira for a four-year appointment, beginning in October, at a shareholders meeting in early August.
The company, like other brewers, has dealt with inflation pressures, sliding sales and changes in consumer habits in recent years.
“Throughout his career, Rafa has consistently transformed complex challenges into clear organizational priorities, aligning teams around what matters most, and driving disciplined execution of strategy,” Peter Wennink, the board’s chair, said in the announcement. “He combines strategic clarity with operational rigour and strong people leadership to deliver superior results.”
“As a long-time admirer of Heineken’s heritage and global impact, I am thrilled to have the opportunity to lead this great company into its next chapter,” added Oliveira.
Keurig Dr Pepper said that it has opened a search process for the next leader of its coffee segment. The company also announced that Pamela Patsley, its board chair, would lead the board of the coffee business following the split.
