Guayakí has appointed a former leading Red Bull executive as its new CEO. 

The California-based company, which is known for its namesake yerba mate tea-based brand, confirmed the immediate hire of former Red Bull North America CEO, Stefan Kozak, yesterday. Kozak inherits the role from the company’s co-founder Chris Mann, who will join Guayakí’s board of directors.

Kozak worked at Red Bull for 16 years, ten of which were spent as CEO of the company’s North American division. According to The Wall Street Journal, he was relieved of his duties in July 2020.

Commenting on his appointment, Kozak said: “Given the state of the planet and Guayakí’s longstanding commitment to sustainability and social good, I can’t imagine a better and more meaningful place to work.”

Last month, Nestle launched Perrier Energize, a caffeinated sparkling water containing yerba mate extract, in the US.

Why energy and functional drinks should be wary of coffee’s renewed attack on the caffeine occasion – click here for a just-drinks comment

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Just Drinks Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Drinks Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
De Kuyper Royal Distillers’ De Kuyper Batched 0.0% range has won both Innovation and Product Launches honours in the 2025 Just Drinks Excellence Awards. Learn how these premium, non-alcoholic RTD cocktails help operators serve consistent, bar-quality drinks while tapping fast-growing demand for sophisticated alcohol-free options.

Discover the Impact