Ramon Laguarta
Ramon Laguarta is a Spanish business executive currently serving as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of PepsiCo. Since taking over the leadership in 2018 from Indra Nooyi, he has steered the company toward a future focused on sustainability, digital transformation, and health-conscious innovation. Under his direction, PepsiCo has adapted to rapidly changing consumer preferences and cemented its position as one of the world’s leading food and beverage companies.[1]
| Ramon Laguarta | |
|---|---|
 | |
| Born | 1963 Barcelona, Spain |
| Nationality | Spanish |
| Education | ESADE Business School Thunderbird School of Global Management |
| Occupation | Chairman & CEO of PepsiCo |
Early Life and Education
Ramon Laguarta was born in Barcelona, Spain in 1963. He earned a master’s degree in International Management from ESADE Business School in Barcelona and later attended the Thunderbird School of Global Management in the United States. His international education provided him with a global outlook, which later became a cornerstone of his leadership approach at PepsiCo.[2]
Career at PepsiCo
Laguarta joined PepsiCo in 1996, taking on various leadership roles in the company's European operations. His contributions helped PepsiCo grow its presence in emerging markets, and he eventually rose to become President of the company in 2017.
In 2018, he was appointed CEO, becoming the sixth person—and the first Spaniard—to lead PepsiCo. The following year, he was named Chairman of the Board. Since then, Laguarta has focused on three strategic priorities: sustainability, portfolio diversification, and digital innovation.[3]
Key Initiatives and Achievements
One of Laguarta’s signature initiatives is PepsiCo Positive (pep+), launched in 2021. This comprehensive strategy aims to reshape PepsiCo’s business around sustainability and social responsibility. It focuses on:
- Agriculture: Promoting regenerative farming practices across PepsiCo’s global supply chain.
- Supply Chain: Reducing carbon emissions and improving water efficiency.
- Products: Developing healthier snacks and beverages, and introducing sustainable packaging.
Other notable achievements under Laguarta's leadership include:
- Acquisition of SodaStream to diversify into at-home beverage solutions.
- Expansion of PepsiCo’s presence in e-commerce and digital platforms.
- Significant reductions in sugar and sodium levels across product lines.
- Investment in plant-based and functional foods to meet health-conscious consumer trends.[4]
Leadership Style and Vision
Ramon Laguarta is recognized for his inclusive, innovation-driven leadership. He encourages a culture of agility, collaboration, and long-term thinking. His commitment to stakeholder capitalism reflects a balanced focus on shareholders, employees, customers, and communities.
He envisions a future where PepsiCo becomes not only a market leader in food and beverages but also a global sustainability pioneer. His focus includes integrating AI, data analytics, and automation to improve business efficiency and consumer engagement.[5]
Global Recognition
Laguarta’s leadership has earned him international acclaim. He is regularly featured in lists of top global CEOs and has been praised for successfully managing PepsiCo through economic uncertainties and industry disruptions, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.[6]
Conclusion
Ramon Laguarta is a transformational leader who has redefined PepsiCo’s global strategy for the 21st century. His focus on sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity continues to shape the future of one of the world’s most iconic companies. Through his vision, PepsiCo is not only navigating the challenges of a rapidly evolving market but also setting benchmarks for responsible and future-ready corporate leadership.
References
- ↑ https://www.stocktitan.net/news/PEP/pepsi-co-announces-timing-and-availability-of-first-quarter-2025-yt0ueop6jdsb.html
- ↑ https://www.bwmarketingworld.com/article/india-is-a-big-growth-space-for-us-ramon-laguarta-pepsico-526078
- ↑ https://hr.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/workplace-4-0/diversity-and-inclusion/differences-bubble-up-between-pepsico-and-coca-cola-on-diversity-programs/118482653
- ↑ https://www.cnbctv18.com/world/india-to-be-high-growth-market-for-many-years-pepsico-chairman-and-ceo-ramon-laguarta-19442171.htm
- ↑ https://www.businessroundtable.org/members/ramon-laguarta
- ↑ https://www.storyboard18.com/brand-marketing/pepsico-ceo-ramon-laguarta-india-is-a-big-growth-space-for-us-investing-in-the-brands-36835.htm