Mumbai, July 11, 2025 — In a landmark announcement, Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) has appointed Priya Nair as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, making her the first woman to lead the FMCG giant in its 92-year history. Her appointment becomes effective August 1, 2025, following the stepping down of Rohit Jawa on July 31, 2025.

Currently the President, Beauty & Wellbeing at Unilever, Nair has had a stellar three-decade-long journey with the company. She will also join the HUL Board, pending regulatory approvals, while continuing to serve as a member of the Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE).

A 30-Year Rise from Ground-Level to the Top

Priya Nair started her career at HUL in 1995, holding early roles such as Consumer Insights Manager and Brand Manager for products like Dove, Rin, and Comfort. She later took on leadership positions in oral care, deodorants, and customer development across South Asia.

Notably, Nair served as Executive Director and CCVP for Homecare, and later Beauty & Personal Care in South Asia. Her impressive India track record led to her global elevation as Global CMO of Unilever’s Beauty & Wellbeing unit in 2022, followed by her promotion to President of the division in 2023.

Educational Background

• B.Com (Accounts & Statistics) – Sydenham College of Commerce & Economics

• MBA (Marketing) – Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune

• Executive Program – Harvard Business School

Leadership Praise and Legacy

Nitin Paranjpe, Chairman of HUL, hailed her appointment, saying, “Priya has had an outstanding career in HUL and Unilever. With her deep understanding of the Indian market and proven leadership, she is set to take HUL to new heights.”

Outgoing CEO Rohit Jawa, who led HUL since 2023, oversaw volume-led growth amidst a challenging macroeconomic environment. His departure, according to HUL, is to explore new personal and professional opportunities.