Nestlé names Jeff Hamilton as new regional CEO for the Americas

USA – Nestlé has appointed Jeff Hamilton, currently the head of Purina PetCare in Europe, as the new CEO for Zone Americas, effective July 1. 

The announcement follows the retirement of long-serving executive Steve Presley, who will step down from his post and the company’s executive board on April 30 after nearly three decades of service.

Hamilton brings a wealth of experience to the role, having served in various leadership positions within Nestlé’s global operations. 

His promotion marks a strategic move by Nestlé’s board to ensure continuity and accelerate growth across the Americas, one of the company’s most important markets.

“We are very grateful to Steve for his many years of dedicated service to our company and extend our best wishes to him for his future endeavours,” said Laurent Freixe, CEO of Nestlé. 

“We are excited to announce that Jeff will become the new CEO of Zone Americas. Jeff has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance and a remarkable ability to inspire and motivate his teams. We look forward to working with Jeff to drive our growth strategy in Zone Americas.”

Hamilton began his Nestlé journey in 1991 as a sales representative at Purina in the U.S. 

Over the years, he has climbed the corporate ladder, holding key roles such as president and CEO of Nestlé Canada, president of the company’s U.S. Foods Division, and vice president of marketing at Nestlé Purina Asia, Oceania, and Africa. 

His leadership style and track record of delivering results have made him a trusted figure within the organisation.

Nestlé’s Purina shines at Zoomark 2025

As Hamilton prepares to take the helm in the Americas, Purina, one of Nestlé’s flagship brands, has taken centre stage at Zoomark 2025, Europe’s premier pet care fair. 

From May 5 to 7, Nestlé’s Purina is showcasing its enhanced exhibition space in Pavilion 29, Stand D41-E40 at BolognaFiere, with a special focus on its high-performance pet nutrition brand, Purina Pro Plan.

Born out of scientific research and veterinary expertise, Purina Pro Plan offers tailored nutrition solutions for pets at every life stage. 

The exhibition also features the Pro Plan Supplements line, evidence-based products designed to support immunity, mobility, and overall well-being without requiring major changes to a pet’s existing diet. 

In addition, Purina is hosting discussions on industry topics, including corporate social responsibility and the evolving human-animal relationship, further underlining its commitment to pet welfare.

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