Lipton Teas and Infusions Names Former Heineken President as CEO

Busain brings a wealth of experience from his extensive career with Heineken, where he began as part of the finance team in 1995.

Over his 30-year tenure, he excelled in various roles across Europe, Africa, and the Americas, culminating in a decade-long position as the president of the Americas.

His journey started in finance before transitioning to general management in 2003, leading him to hold managing director positions in Burundi, Egypt, France, and Mexico.

Under Busain’s leadership, the Americas region experienced remarkable growth, with revenue, operating profit, and net profit all doubling. Notably, Mexico and Brazil emerged as key profit drivers.

He played a pivotal role in the acquisition of Brazil Kirin and its successful integration into Heineken’s Brazilian operations, which is now its largest market for both Heineken and Amstel.

Additionally, premiumisation and the rapid growth of Heineken 0.0 were significant contributors to the region’s success under his guidance.

Reflecting on his new role leading Lipton Teas and Infusions, Busain expressed: “It is a tremendous pleasure to join a company with responsibility for such a collection of storied and much-loved brands.”

“Tea, in all its varied forms, is an exciting growth category and I look forward to working with the talented team at Lipton Teas and Infusions to ensure there’s a tea for everyone.”

“This is a natural moment for Marc to take the next step in his career, and I am genuinely pleased for him,” stated Dolf van den Brink, chairman of the executive board/CEO for Heineken.

“He leaves behind a remarkable legacy in the Americas, where he cultivated a winning culture rooted in trust and empowerment. As a leader, Marc stood out for his commitment to building strong teams and nurturing talent, often mentoring first-time general managers who have gone on to become key leaders within Heineken. I wish him every success in his future endeavours.”

Pierre Laubies, who had been leading Lipton since Nathalie Roos stepped down, will return to the supervisory board as Busain assumes the top position.

Laubies became chair of the firm’s supervisory board in 2022 when Lipton Teas and Infusions was established as an independent business. He served as interim CEO in September.

“I am very pleased to welcome Marc to Lipton Teas and Infusions on behalf of the Supervisory Board,” commented Jean-Remy Roussel, current supervisory board chair.

“Marc has tremendous global experience in the consumer packaged goods sector and a track record of consistently delivering growth. With his strong commercial acumen and leadership, I have every confidence that the world’s leading tea business is in good hands. I also look forward to having Pierre rejoin us on the Supervisory Board and thank him for his hands-on management during this period.”