JBS sets 2027 CEO handover to Wesley Batista

JBS has announced a planned change in its top leadership, naming Wesley Batista Filho as its next Global Chief Executive Officer, effective January 2027. The move sets out a long‑dated timetable for the handover of responsibilities at one of the world’s largest food companies. Company communications frame the decision as part of an organized succession process rather than an abrupt change in direction.

Under the plan, Gilberto Tomazoni will remain in the Global CEO role while the transition is prepared and initiated. The company has indicated that the transition period will last about five months, during which Tomazoni will supervise the handover of duties to his successor. This structure is intended to provide continuity in management during the changeover.

After overseeing the transition period, Gilberto Tomazoni will leave the position of Global CEO and move into new responsibilities within JBS’s governance framework. He is set to assume a role as vice‑president or vice‑chairman of the board. In addition, he will serve as a senior advisor, remaining involved with the company after the executive shift is completed.

By keeping Tomazoni in board and advisory positions, JBS plans to retain his experience and institutional knowledge while installing new operational leadership. The outlined structure suggests that Tomazoni will continue to have influence in strategic discussions even after daily management passes to Wesley Batista Filho.

Wesley Batista Filho currently serves as CEO of JBS USA, one of the company’s major business units. He has worked at JBS for about 15 years, building experience across multiple parts of the group. His background includes senior positions at JBS Brasil and Seara, as well as roles in global operations leadership.

By moving from JBS USA to the Global CEO position, Batista Filho will shift from a regional leadership role to overall responsibility for the company’s worldwide operations. His progression through different divisions gives him familiarity with both domestic Brazilian activities and international businesses within the group.

Media reports describe Wesley Batista Filho’s appointment as marking a return of the Batista family to JBS’s top executive post. The family has long been associated with the company’s origins and growth. With Batista Filho set to become Global CEO, a member of the founding family is again slated to occupy the highest management role.

The company’s communication of the change as a planned succession, combined with the extended lead time before January 2027, suggests a focus on stability during the leadership handover. The roles defined for both the incoming and outgoing executives aim to balance continuity with the introduction of a new global chief.