VEVEY – NestlĂ©, a leading global food and beverage company, has nominated Dick Boer and Dinesh Paliwal as independent members for election to its Board of Directors, bringing extensive experience in both fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and cutting-edge technologies, according to a press release published on EuropaWire.
Dick Boer, former President and CEO of Ahold Delhaize N.V., a major player in the food retail industry, brings a wealth of expertise in supermarket operations and e-commerce. His leadership roles within Ahold and later Ahold Delhaize have positioned him as a seasoned executive with deep insights into retail dynamics. Boer’s contributions are expected to bolster NestlĂ©’s FMCG capabilities, complementing the existing strengths within the Board.
Dinesh Paliwal, currently the CEO and President of Harman International Industries Inc., a subsidiary of Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., offers profound knowledge in artificial intelligence, digital business models, and cloud computing. With a background spanning leadership positions at ABB Ltd and extensive international experience, Paliwal’s appointment underscores NestlĂ©’s commitment to leveraging emerging technologies for sustainable business growth.
The proposed appointments are slated for a vote at the upcoming Annual General Meeting scheduled for April 11, 2019. Upon their election, Boer and Paliwal will join NestlĂ©’s Board of Directors, which will then comprise 14 members, with 12 being independent directors.
Commenting on the nominations, NestlĂ© Chairman Paul Bulcke expressed confidence in the value that Boer and Paliwal would bring to the Board, citing their respective expertise as pivotal in navigating the company’s future endeavors. He also extended gratitude to outgoing directors Jean-Pierre Roth and Ruth Oniang’o for their valuable contributions.
Henri de Castries, Chairman of the Nomination and Sustainability Committee and Nestlé’s Lead Independent Director, emphasized the importance of refreshing the Board with diverse perspectives to drive sustainable value creation for shareholders and society.
Dick Boer’s distinguished career includes leadership roles at Ahold and Ahold Delhaize, where he spearheaded strategic initiatives in retail operations and mergers. Additionally, he serves on advisory boards and holds positions in prominent cultural institutions, further enriching his breadth of experience.
Dinesh Paliwal’s background encompasses executive roles at Harman International and ABB Ltd, along with board memberships in esteemed organizations such as Bristol-Myers Squibb and Raytheon Company. His accolades include the Ellis Island Medal of Honor, recognizing his significant contributions to society.
In adherence to corporate governance principles, Boer will abstain from participating in matters conflicting with the interests of Ahold Delhaize until July 1, 2019, due to prior commitments.
NestlĂ©’s pursuit of diverse talent and expertise underscores its dedication to innovation and strategic leadership in the evolving landscape of FMCG and technology.