Farewell of HEINEKEN CEO Jean-François van Boxmeer

Today is my last day as your CEO. I knew that would come, but when my departure was announced in February, I could not have imagined it would be like this. I'm not going to give you a look back to all the things we did over the last 15 years or more. I merely filled 15 out of the 155 pages of the Heineken history book. I am very proud of what we achieved together. I am especially proud of the fact that the company is active in many more countries today, that we have become a real multi-brand company, and at the same time we still have huge success with the Heineken brand all over the world. The Heineken brand that unites us and that sets us apart from all our competitors. I'm also very proud that we became a very diverse company and that we embrace an ambitious sustainability agenda. I learned a lot along the way, and I want to share with you a few simple lessons that I learned early in my career in Africa and that guided me through the years. First, if you want to receive, you'd better first give. Second, if you want to make a career, deliver the goods. That means always perform well in the job you have now. And last but not least, if you make mistakes, then admit, apologize, and repair. And you'd better be the first to acknowledge the mistake if others tell you it's too late. Simple tips, but not always easy to follow. It was a great honor to serve as your CEO. A new generation will take Heineken further, and I am very happy to pass the baton over to Dolph. He's off to a difficult start, but I know him as a strong leader. He knows our company and our business well. He is the right person to lead this company in the next phase of its development. I love this company, its people, and its brands. Heineken is unique, and I leave with a little bit of nostalgia but a lot of gratitude and joy. I strongly believe that Heineken has a bright future ahead as a leading independent and global brewer. The future might now look a bit bleak, but we have seen more storms and won more battles. I have all confidence that you will get through these difficult times together. I have often mentioned that our culture is what makes us different. It also makes us strong; nurture it, and Heineken will continue to win and thrive. The future is in your capable hands. Oh hi. Cheers. Dear friends from all over the world, thank you for the wonderful 36 years with Heineken. It was worth living every day of it, and I wish you all the best. Cheers.