Cristiane Souza, 51, became the first Brazilian woman to lead Casa Gallo in Brazil. She took the role in 2023 and guided the company through a rebranding and the 2024 olive harvest crisis.
Casa Gallo, a century-old operation started in 1919, aims to double the size of its Brazilian subsidiary, which already accounts for 60% of global revenue. The strategy includes encouraging daily use of olive oil in cooking, beyond just finishing dishes, and expanding the portfolio with premium items such as Rossio de Abrantes.
Souza noted that Brazil represents more than 50% of the volume sold by the company, which operates in 80 countries. After prices rose in 2024, when the liter reached R$80, values returned to R$30-35 and sales grew 25% in March.
The executive, who graduated from PUC-SP and holds an MBA from FGV, spent 25 years at Unilever before taking the helm. The company continues to focus on olives, vinegars and peppers to strengthen its retail presence.
