PepsiCo elects J&J CEO Joaquin Duato to its board

PepsiCo announced on September 17, 2026, that its board of directors has elected Joaquin Duato as an independent member. Duato will formally take his seat on December 1, 2026, and will also join the company's Audit Committee.

Duato currently serves as Chairman and CEO of Johnson & Johnson, where he has held the chief executive role since 2022 and the board chairmanship since 2023. He joined Johnson & Johnson in 1989 and previously served as vice chairman of the executive committee from 2018 to 2021 and worldwide chairman of pharmaceuticals from 2011 to 2018.

PepsiCo Chairman and CEO Ramon Laguarta highlighted Duato's leadership in strategic transformation, portfolio optimization, and innovation across global businesses. Robert C. Pohlad, chair of PepsiCo's Nominating and Corporate Governance Committee, noted that Duato brings extensive experience in risk oversight and managing operations in highly regulated markets.

PepsiCo generated nearly $94 billion in net revenue in 2025 across its snack and beverage portfolio, which includes brands such as Lay's, Doritos, Cheetos, Gatorade, and Pepsi-Cola.