Nestlé boss Laurent Freixe was abruptly booted on Monday for failing to disclose a romantic relationship with an underling less than a year after taking the reins, the Swiss food giant said.

The world’s largest food company — which has a portfolio of brands that includes Gerber, Purina, Perrier and KitKat — said an internal investigation found the French-born Freixe had violated its code of conduct, the company said.

“The decision was necessary,” Nestle board chairman Paul Bulcke said in a statement.

“Nestlé’s values and governance form the solid foundation of our company.” 3

The 63-year-old Freixe (pronounced Fraysh) will receive no exit package, the company said.

It did not provide any specifics about Freixe’s romantic relationship with the direct subordinate.

Philipp Navratil

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