PITTSBURGH —The Kraft Heinz Co. has announced the appointment of Nicolas Amaya (“Nico”) as president, North America, effective February 23, 2026. In this role, Amaya will lead the Company’s North America business, overseeing strategy, operations, and performance across Kraft Heinz’s largest market.
Pedro Navio, current president, North America, will step down on February 22 to pursue other opportunities. Over his eight years with the Company, Pedro played a meaningful role in leading multiple businesses and helping position the Company for the future. The Company thanks him for his leadership and contributions. To ensure a smooth transition, he will serve as an advisor to the Company through March 6.
“Kraft Heinz has an iconic portfolio of brands, a strong foundation for growth and a talented team in North America,” said Amaya. “The opportunity ahead to modernize these brands for today’s consumer is huge, and we’re making the right investments to do so. I’m excited to join the team and deliver.”
Amaya brings extensive global and North American leadership experience across the CPG industry, with a track record of driving profitable growth by strengthening brand portfolios and building strong relationships with key customers and partners. Most recently, he served in senior executive roles at Kellanova, where he played a key role in advancing the company’s commercial strategy, operational performance, and organizational transformation. He is recognized for his customer-centric approach, disciplined execution, and ability to build high-performing teams.
“Nico is a proven leader with deep experience driving growth and transformation in complex, competitive markets,” said Steve Cahillane, CEO, Kraft Heinz. “As we continue to transform and build momentum across our North America business, Nico brings the right combination of commercial rigor, operational excellence, and people leadership to accelerate that progress. I worked closely with Nico for many years at Kellogg and Kellanova, and I have great confidence in his ability to lead our North America business as we focus on returning Kraft Heinz to profitable growth.”
Nicolas Amaya joins Kraft Heinz, having most recently served as Senior Vice President and President, Kellanova North America, where he was a member of Kellanova’s executive committee. He started at Kellogg in 2001 marketing brands like Eggo and Pop-Tarts in the U.S. During his tenure with the company, he held a variety of leadership positions in the company’s U.S. and Latin America regions across the cereal, frozen, and snacks businesses.
Prior to Kellogg, Amaya held various marketing roles at Unilever Andina in the personal care division.
Amaya is from Bogotá, Colombia. He received his Bachelor of Science degree in Industrial Engineering from Universidad de los Andes and an MBA from Thunderbird, Garvin School of International Management.
