MOROCCO – Centrale Danone, a key player in Morocco’s dairy industry and a subsidiary of the global dairy giant Danone, has appointed Herve Orama Barrere as its new CEO.
Barrere takes over from Nathalie Alquier, who will assume new responsibilities within the Danone group after successfully steering the Moroccan branch since 2019.
Barrere, previously the General Manager for Danone South Africa, expanded his responsibilities earlier this year to cover the sub-Saharan African region.
His experience includes leadership roles in Algeria and Nigeria, which have equipped him with deep insights into the African market dynamics.
His strategic expertise is recognized for integrating sustainability with profitability, which is crucial for strengthening Danone’s foothold across Africa.
Under Nathalie Alquier’s leadership, Centrale Danone solidified its market-leading position and significantly advanced its social and environmental initiatives.
Danone shed light on Barrere’s strategic expertise and deep knowledge of African markets in the statement.
“Barrere is recognized for his expertise in strategy and his understanding of African markets, having worked in various regions of the continent,” the statement read.
“His integrated approach to sustainability and profitability has been crucial in strengthening Danone’s position in Africa.”
Notably, in 2021, the company launched an initiative in Morocco to fortify dairy products and combat iron and vitamin D deficiencies among children.
This initiative was part of a broader effort to support children’s physical and cognitive development while boosting their immune systems.
Upon his appointment, Barrere highlighted the significance of the Moroccan market, describing it as strategic for Danone’s growth.
He expressed confidence in the market’s development prospects and affirmed his commitment to sustaining growth and reinforcing Danone’s local presence. His leadership is expected to focus on expanding operations and enhancing the company’s impact in Morocco.
Centrale Danone, based in Casablanca, employs around 1,800 workers and generates annual profits averaging MAD 801 million (US$80 million).
Barrere’s appointment is anticipated to bring renewed energy and strategic direction to the company’s efforts to maintain its competitive edge and drive innovation in the dairy sector.
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