Centrale Danone Appoints Imad Bakkali as CEO
Centrale Danone has announced the appointment of Imad Bakkali as Chief Executive Officer, effective July 1, 2026. He will succeed Hervé Barrere, who is stepping down for family reasons after nine years with the Danone Group.
This appointment marks a new chapter in the company’s evolution, as it aims to continue its development strategy and strengthen its presence in the Moroccan market.
An Experienced Leader in the Consumer Goods Sector
With over 23 years of experience in the consumer goods industry, Imad Bakkali brings a wealth of expertise gained at Centrale Danone and several major corporations.
His deep understanding of the Moroccan market, commercial challenges, and operational dynamics is a significant asset for supporting the company’s growth ambitions.
A Leadership Transition Focused on Continuity
According to Centrale Danone, Imad Bakkali has distinguished himself throughout his career through his leadership, mastery of the company’s operations, and ability to unite teams in ever-changing environments.
His appointment at the helm of the group reflects a strategy of continuity, with the intent to accelerate the company’s transformation while consolidating its achievements.
Priorities Centered on Sustainable Performance
Under his new leadership, Centrale Danone will pursue several major strategic goals, including enhancing proximity to consumers and clients, improving sustainable performance, and supporting partner farmers.
The company reaffirms its commitment to developing the national dairy sector, which is viewed as a vital lever for the growth of the agrifood sector in Morocco.
Renewed Confidence from the Danone Group in the Moroccan Market
With this appointment, the Danone Group confirms its confidence in the potential of the Moroccan market and the capability of its local teams to maintain the momentum of development established in recent years.
This vision aligns with the group’s ongoing mission to promote healthy and accessible food for a broad audience.
Imad Bakkali Outlines His Ambitions
Reacting to his appointment, Imad Bakkali expressed his honor in taking the lead at Centrale Danone. He emphasized his intention to work alongside the company’s teams to best serve Moroccan consumers, partner farmers, and the entire dairy sector ecosystem.
He also reaffirmed his ambition to enhance the company’s sustainable performance while continuing its mission for healthier and more accessible food.
A Tribute to Hervé Barrere
Centrale Danone paid tribute to the career and contributions of its predecessor, Hervé Barrere, whose leadership has significantly shaped the company’s development in Morocco and the expansion of the Danone Group’s activities across the African continent.
His efforts bolstered Centrale Danone’s position as a major player in the Moroccan agrifood sector.
