Having worked there for nearly four decades, Kendrick was appointed as chairman in 2012 and also served as chief executive from 2012-2017.
Kendrick said: “I have had an amazing career over the past 40 years and worked with extraordinary people who share my passion for the food and drink industry.
“Now it is time for me to do something else while maintaining my interest in skills and young people.
“For me, the future is about continuing to be involved in the things that I love while finding more time to enjoy my family.”
Chief executive of Nestle Europe, Middle East and North Africa, Marco Settembri, commented: “On behalf of everybody at Nestlé, I thank Fiona for her tireless work and vision throughout a wonderful career and wish her very well for the future.”
Kendrick will continue to sit on the food and drink sector council and the Institute of Apprenticeships board. She will also maintain chairing a new university for engineers in Hereford.