Mumbai, Maharashtra, India, July 2025 – In a landmark leadership transition at India’s largest fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company, Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has announced the appointment of Priya Nair as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, effective 1st August 2025. Nair, a seasoned Unilever leader and globally respected marketer, will succeed Rohit Jawa, who will step down on 31st July 2025 to pursue the next phase of his personal and professional journey.
Nair’s appointment marks a significant milestone for HUL and the broader Indian corporate landscape. Currently serving as President, Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever, Nair will also become a member of the HUL Board, subject to necessary approvals, while continuing to be part of the Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE).
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Nair’s illustrious career with Unilever began in 1995 when she joined HUL and took on several roles in sales and marketing across Home Care, Beauty & Wellbeing, and Personal Care businesses. Her impactful leadership as Executive Director, Home Care, HUL (2014–2020) and later as Executive Director, Beauty & Personal Care, HUL (2020–2022) elevated her to global prominence. She then became the Global Chief Marketing Officer, Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever, followed by her current role as President, Beauty & Wellbeing – one of the company’s fastest-growing global business segments.
As Priya Nair prepares to return to India to take on the leadership of HUL, she brings not just global experience, but a deep understanding of the Indian consumer and market dynamics. Her return is seen as a strategic move to further HUL’s innovation, digital acceleration, and sustainable growth.
Outgoing CEO and MD Rohit Jawa, who took the helm in 2023, leaves behind a strong legacy. During his two-year tenure, he led the company through challenging market conditions, delivering volume-led competitive growth. His leadership was marked by the rollout of the ‘ASPIRE’ strategy, which focused on portfolio transformation and tapping into high-growth demand spaces. Jawa’s illustrious 37-year Unilever career includes pivotal roles as Executive Vice President North Asia, Chair of Unilever China, and Chair of Unilever Philippines.
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Acknowledging Jawa’s contributions, Nitin Paranjpe, Chairman of HUL, said, “On behalf of the Board of HUL, I would like to thank Rohit for leading the business through tough market conditions and strengthening its foundations for success. The Company took decisive actions to sharpen the portfolio and further stepped up its market leadership over the last two years. I wish him the very best for the next chapter in his life.”
Welcoming Priya Nair, he added, “Priya has had an outstanding career in HUL and Unilever. I am certain that with her deep understanding of the Indian market and excellent track record, Priya will take HUL to the next level of performance.”
About Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL)
HUL, a subsidiary of Unilever, is India’s largest FMCG company, with products spanning across Home Care, Beauty & Wellbeing, Personal Care, and Nutrition. With a legacy dating back over 80 years, HUL serves millions of households and is known for some of India’s most trusted brands like Dove, Surf Excel, Lifebuoy, Pond’s, Lakmé, and Bru. Its business is driven by purpose, innovation, and a commitment to sustainable growth.
About Unilever
Unilever is one of the world’s most successful, purpose-led companies, producing household-name brands across food, beauty, and home care. Its portfolio includes Lipton, Dove, Hellmann’s, Knorr, Ben & Jerry’s, and more. Unilever’s global workforce is empowered to make a real impact, underpinned by innovation, inclusion, and sustainability.
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