Barilla appoints Unilever veteran as new CEO

Italian food group Barilla has appointed Claudio Colzani as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) effective from October.

Colzani is currently the Chief Customer Officer for Unilever in the US and has worked with the consumer goods giant for nearly 30 years.

Guido Barilla, chairman of the Barilla Group, said the company is “delighted” with the new appointment.

“His broad international experience and thorough understanding of consumers, coupled with his deep knowledge of products and markets, will add great value to the company,” Barilla said.

He detailed that the group will continue to focus on its growth strategy to strengthen its bakery arm in Italy and other key European markets as well as drive the pasta, sauces and ready meals businesses globally.