Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi

New Delhi, Jul 10: Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL), the Indian arm of global FMCG major Unilever, has named Priya Nair as its next Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, marking a historic appointment as the first woman to lead the company in its history. Her five-year term will begin on August 1, 2025.

Nair will succeed Rohit Jawa, who is stepping down at the end of July 2025 to explore new professional and personal opportunities after a distinguished 37-year career with Unilever.

Currently serving as Business Group President – Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever, Nair will also join HUL’s board (subject to necessary approvals) and remain a part of the Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE).

A proven leader

Nair brings deep operational and leadership experience to the role. She began her journey with HUL in 1995 and has led several key categories across Home Care, Beauty & Wellbeing, and Personal Care. She held executive director roles in both the Home Care and Beauty & Personal Care divisions at HUL between 2014 and 2022. In 2023, she became the global head of the Beauty & Wellbeing business — one of Unilever’s most dynamic and high-growth verticals.

Nair holds a commerce degree from Sydenham College, an MBA from Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune, and has completed executive education at Harvard Business School.

Leadership transition

Outgoing CEO Rohit Jawa took charge in 2023, succeeding Sanjeev Mehta. He led the company through a transformative phase with the introduction of the ‘ASPIRE’ strategy, focused on driving growth in emerging demand spaces.

In a note to HUL’s board, Jawa said, “I have decided to pursue the next chapter in my personal and professional journey. I’m proud of my 37-year track record with Unilever, particularly my leadership in strategically significant markets across Asia.”

Endorsements and outlook

Welcoming Nair’s return to India, HUL Chairman Nitin Paranjpe said, “Priya Nair has had an outstanding career in HUL and Unilever. Her deep knowledge of the Indian market and proven leadership make her the perfect choice to lead HUL into its next phase.”

Financial snapshot

For FY2025, HUL reported a turnover of Rs 61,469 crore and a net profit of Rs 10,644 crore. The company’s market capitalisation stands at Rs 5.66 lakh crore, reinforcing its position as one of India’s most valuable listed companies.

Priya Nair’s appointment signals a new era for HUL — one that blends global expertise with local insight, and a strong step forward in gender representation at the top.