FrieslandCampina Announces Leadership Changes Amid Strategic Advancements
On June 16, at the Members’ Council meeting of Zuivelcoöperatie FrieslandCampina, the dairy cooperative revealed significant leadership transitions. Sybren Attema announced that he would vacate his positions as chair of both the Cooperative Board and the Supervisory Board of Royal FrieslandCampina on December 15, 2026. His role will be taken over by Nils den Besten, a dairy farmer from Giessenburg and a current board member.
Attema's departure marks the conclusion of a five-year period during which FrieslandCampina navigated numerous industry challenges and solidified its market position through a merger with the Belgian dairy cooperative Milcobel. Attema emphasized the achievements made during his tenure, particularly the merger that enhanced FrieslandCampina's competitive standing.
Nils den Besten expressed confidence in the cooperative's strength, aiming to foster transparency and collaboration as the organization moves forward. Additionally, the Supervisory Board confirmed the reappointment of CEO Jan Derck van Karnebeek for a second four-year term starting June 1, 2027, reflecting the board's trust in his leadership and the executive team's performance.
Further governance modifications include Sandra Stuijk-Pelkmans taking over as vice-chair of the Cooperative Board from December 15, 2026, succeeding Den Besten. Her expertise in finance and governance is anticipated to support the cooperative's continuity. Baptiest Coopmans will continue as vice-chair of the Supervisory Board.
The Members’ Council also approved the reappointment of Herman Bakhuis and Sandra Stuijk-Pelkmans for second terms on the Cooperative Board. The cooperative stressed that these appointments are part of a strategic governance process to maintain stability and effective leadership.
In conjunction with these announcements, FrieslandCampina provided an update on its business performance for the first half of 2026. CFO Hans Janssen reported challenges due to low base dairy prices and increased milk volumes, which have squeezed margins in some business areas. Despite this, the cooperative continues to expand its market share and perform well in protein markets, with integration efforts following the Milcobel merger and the acquisition of Wisconsin Whey Protein progressing as planned.
Janssen confirmed FrieslandCampina's focus on profitable growth, margin enhancement, and cost discipline throughout 2026, as the cooperative aims to strengthen its global dairy market position.
