Executive leadership continued to evolve throughout July as organizations across retail, manufacturing, technology, aerospace, software, and nonprofit sectors announced new Chief Executive Officers. Whether succeeding long-serving leaders or joining from outside the organization, these executives bring a wide range of operational, financial, and strategic experience as they guide their organizations through the next stage of growth.
Below are 10 CEO appointments announced during July 2026.
Dow Announces that Karen S. Carter Assumes Role as CEO
Dow officially transitioned leadership on July 1 as Karen S. Carter became Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Jim Fitterling, who moved into the role of Executive Chair. Carter previously served as Dow’s Chief Operating Officer and has held numerous senior leadership positions across commercial, manufacturing, and corporate functions during her career with the company.
7-Eleven, Inc. Appoints Mauricio Leyva as CEO
Seven & i Holdings has appointed Mauricio Leyva as Chief Executive Officer of 7-Eleven, Inc. Leyva will lead the company’s North American convenience store business, overseeing strategy, operations, and continued investment in customer experience and innovation. Leyva brings more than two decades of consumer products leadership experience. He previously served as Group President at Keurig Dr Pepper, where he helped lead the company’s post-merger integration and long-term business strategy. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership positions with PepsiCo in both the United States and Latin America.
Ram Brand Appoints Matt VanDyke as CEO
Stellantis appointed Matt VanDyke as Chief Executive Officer of the Ram brand, as part of a broader executive leadership restructuring. VanDyke returns to Stellantis after serving as President of regional operations for a major automotive organization. Earlier in his career, he spent more than two decades with Chrysler and FCA, holding leadership positions across marketing, sales, dealer operations, and brand management.
Jeep Brand Announces Branden Coté as CEO
Stellantis also announced Branden Coté as the next Chief Executive Officer of the Jeep brand. Coté brings significant automotive leadership experience across manufacturing, operations, and commercial strategy. His appointment supports Stellantis’ continued focus on strengthening one of its most recognizable global brands.
Raphael Erb Appointed Sole CEO of SoftwareOne
SoftwareOne announced that Raphael Erb will become its sole Chief Executive Officer effective August 1, following the successful integration of SoftwareOne and Crayon. The company is transitioning from a co-CEO structure as it enters its next phase of growth. Erb most recently served as Co-CEO and previously held several senior leadership positions within SoftwareOne, including Chief Executive for Switzerland and Regional President. Throughout his tenure, he has played a significant role in expanding the company’s software and cloud solutions business.
Greg Saxon Named CEO of The Recycling Partnership
The Recycling Partnership appointed Greg Saxon as its new Chief Executive Officer, succeeding founder Keefe Harrison following a planned leadership transition. Saxon brings more than 20 years of executive leadership experience spanning recycling, packaging, procurement, supply chain, and sustainability. Before joining the organization, he held leadership roles supporting circular economy initiatives and sustainable materials management.
Shutterstock Announces Rik Powell as Interim CEO
Shutterstock announced that Rik Powell has been appointed Interim Chief Executive Officer following the departure of Paul Hennessy. Powell will continue serving as Chief Financial Officer while leading the company during the executive transition. Powell joined Shutterstock in 2024 after serving in senior finance and investor relations leadership positions throughout his career. The board selected him to provide stability while conducting a search for a permanent CEO.
Harry Holt Becomes CEO of Babcock International
Babcock International confirmed the appointment of Harry Holt as Chief Executive Officer, following the previously announced retirement of David Lockwood. Holt has spent more than two decades with Babcock and most recently served as Chief Executive of the company’s Nuclear sector.
Michel Denis Named CEO of Daher
Daher appointed Michel Denis as Chief Executive Officer. Denis joins Daher after serving as CEO of Manitou Group and previously holding senior executive positions with Johnson Controls and Dalkia. His leadership experience spans industrial manufacturing, engineering, and international operations.
Jay Adair Returns as CEO of Copart
Copart announced that Executive Chairman Jay Adair will return as Chief Executive Officer effective July 31 following Jeff Liaw’s decision to step down. Adair previously served as CEO for many years and played a central role in transforming Copart into a global leader in online vehicle auctions. His return provides leadership continuity during the company’s transition.
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