CEO Jesper Brodin Steps Down After 30 Years at IKEA

In major move for manufacturing leadership, Jesper Brodin has stepped down from his role as CEO and President of Ingka Group, IKEA's largest franchisee.

Discussing the transition on LinkedIn, he said: “After 30 inspiring years within IKEA, and the recent eight as CEO & President, I have taken the personal decision to step down. 

“It has not been an easy one to take, but I truly feel this is a good time. 

“I am proud of how we, together, have navigated unprecedented challenges across the last years, always guided by our culture and values, while transforming IKEA to an omnichannel retailer with sustainability at our core. 

“To get to be a part of the IKEA community of 170 000+ colleagues across the last 30 years has been a privilege and a joy.

“I will step into the role of Senior Advisor for IKEA Foundation, among other things.

“In the coming years, I hope to bring my experience to more organisations and continue to contribute to make things better for business, people and the planet.”

Sustainable manufacturing and leadership

Jesper embarked on his journey with IKEA as a Purchase Manager in Pakistan in 1995. His career trajectory within the company is a testament to his robust engagement in both operational and strategic dimensions of manufacturing and operations.

By 1999, he had moved into a pivotal role supporting IKEA Founder Ingvar Kamprad. His contributions continued to grow as he advanced to become Supply Chain Manager and later CEO of IKEA Range and Supply.

Under his leadership, IKEA has actively pushed for sustainable practices and resource efficiency across its manufacturing operations.

He says that from the beginning of his time with IKEA, employees “were taught that wasting resources was a sin".

“If you look at our tradition and history, long before anybody could spell sustainability, it was about reducing air in the packages, filling up the containers, making a flatpack.

“The only way IKEA can be successful in the future is to be in a hurry to get sustainable. 

“We need to get smarter on how we use energy and materials across the whole value chain. And that’s the only way we will be able to be affordable.”

Jesper's approach to leadership is rooted in fostering a unified and empowered workforce. He is a known proponent of creating an inclusive community that drives the business toward its sustainable objectives.

“I am proud to be part of an amazing IKEA community with passionate people who want to create a better everyday life for the many people," Jesper says, underscoring a leadership philosophy focused on collective growth rather than individual command.

Future direction under new leadership

As of November 2025, current Deputy CEO Juvencio Maeztu will take over as CEO of Ingka Group.

With a 25-year tenure at IKEA, Juvencio's background as Store Manager in Madrid and his extensive internal experience position him well to continue advancing IKEA’s dedication to sustainable manufacturing and operations.

Jesper expressed confidence in Juvencio’s leadership, saying: “His values-based leadership and deep commitment to business, people and planet has always inspired me and us, and I know he will lead with purpose at heart.”

Juvencio said on LinkedIn: “I’m thrilled and excited to share the news that I have been appointed new CEO and President at Ingka Group and will start my new job in November 2025. 

“I feel deeply grateful, humble and responsible for the trust and confidence placed in me.

“I know that our vision and commitment to affordability and low prices is more than a business idea, it is our responsibility to the many people. 

“Doing what’s right for business, people and the planet is what drives our long-term success."

As Jesper transitions into his new role as Senior Advisor for the IKEA Foundation, he aims to leverage his expertise to influence wider organisational and environmental practices.

This move reflects IKEA's broader strategy to entwine sustainable development deeply across its operations, emphasising that responsible business is integral to manufacturing success and continued innovation within the industry.

Karen Pflug, Chief Sustainability Officer at Ingka Group, took to LinkedIn to say: ”Eleven years ago, Jesper Brodin took a chance on me. I left sunny Hong Kong, moved my family to Sweden and began my IKEA journey."

She adds: “His trust, support and infectious optimism have shaped my career from my early days as Head of Quality to my work as CSO today.”