Philip Morris International’s current Chief Executive Officer André Calantzopoulos was appointed new Executive Chairman of the Board, after Louis Camilleri had retired for personal reasons. Lucio Noto will serve as interim Chairman until the succession of Calantzopoulos, whereas PMI’s current COO Jacek Olczak will succeed Calantzopoulos as Chief Executive Officer of the company. PMI announced that these changes will be effective as of May next year.
This planned succession promises a seamless transition and continuity of leadership, as Camilleri, Calantzopoulos and Olczak share the same vision and under their combined leadership, the company has marked significant achievements, including its overall business transformation and the leadership position in the smoke-free product category.
Louis Camilleri said: “I am delighted to hand over the Chairman of the Board role to André. I am equally delighted to see Jacek named to the helm of the company. Contemplating my 40-year PMI career, it has been an enormous privilege to serve this wonderful company, preside over its Board, cooperation with its employees and shareholders. I want to wholeheartedly thank you all for this amazing journey that has made our company the leading and most progressive tobacco giant in the world. I am stepping down with the firm belief that the company is in great hands to accomplish its smoke-free vision.”
“It is an honor to follow in the footsteps of our Chairman and former CEO, Louis Camilleri. On behalf of the company leadership, I would like to express our profound appreciation for his amazing contributions to the success of our company, for his devotion, and, above all, humanity. Beyond the unrivaled executive, we will all miss an outstanding person and a friend,“ said André Calantzopoulos. “During my seven years as CEO, we have stepped in the future and offered better, science-based less harmful alternatives for those adults who would otherwise continue to smoke traditional cigarettes. I am very pleased to hand over the CEO responsibility to Jacek, with whom I have worked closely for decades. I know well that his passion for the company and our employees, drive for results, and deep knowledge of our products, systems, values, and investors make him the ideal leader to ensure the continued growth of our business and to deliver shareholder value, concluded Calantzopoulos.
Jacek Olczak commented: “I am humbled to have the opportunity to lead our company. Working alongside André on the business transformation, we have built the capabilities to continue delivering the shared vision. I am committed to continuing that cooperation and leveraging the enormous business opportunity of a smoke-free future, to the benefit of our consumers, shareholders, and society.”
Jacek Olczak has enjoyed a long career with Philip Morris. He previously worked in finance and general management positions across Europe, including as Managing Director of PMI’s markets in Poland and Germany and as President of the European Union Region before his appointment as CFO of PMI in 2012. He holds a master’s degree in economics from the University of Lodz, Poland.