People Moves: Romain Apert, Heineken

2026-03-20 · Source: AI Magazine · Field: Technology & Digital — Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning, Data Science & Analytics, Cloud Computing & IT Infrastructure · Depth: Fundamental Awareness, quick

Summary

Romain Apert has been appointed as Chief Digital & Technology Officer (CDTO) for Heineken, effective May 15, succeeding Ronald den Elzen. Apert brings over two decades of experience from Mars, where he served as CIO for Mars Petcare, leading large-scale digital transformation programs, building robust data foundations, and enabling high-impact AI and technology use cases across various domains. In his new role, he aims to partner with global Digital & Technology teams to advance Heineken's "EverGreen 2030 strategy" by deploying a "Digital Backbone" and scaling the value of data and AI to accelerate growth and productivity. His background as an engineer with international experience emphasizes translating strategy into tangible technology outcomes.

Key takeaway

Heineken appoints Romain Apert as Chief Digital & Technology Officer, signaling a strategic push to scale data and AI for accelerated growth and productivity. Apert, previously CIO at Mars Petcare, brings 20+ years of experience leading high-impact AI and digital transformation across supply, commercial, and consumer domains. This move indicates significant investment and opportunity for AI/ML professionals in CPG to drive tangible business outcomes through a "Digital Backbone" strategy.

Topics

• Executive Appointment
• Digital Transformation
• AI Use Cases
• Data Strategy
• Technology Leadership

Best for: Executive, CTO, Director of AI/ML

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Editorial summary, takeaway, and curation by AIssential. Original article published by AI Magazine.