Hindustan Unilever (HUL) has appointed Priya Nair as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, effective August 1, 2025, making her the first woman to hold the top job at India’s largest FMCG company.
Currently serving as President, Beauty and Wellbeing at Unilever, Nair will succeed Rohit Jawa, who is stepping down after a two-year tenure. She will also join the HUL Board, subject to necessary approvals, and continue to be a member of the Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE).
Prior to this, Nair has had a nearly 30-year-long career with HUL and Unilever, starting in 1995 as a Consumer Insights Manager. She has held a series of key marketing and leadership roles, including Vice President- Detergents, Executive Director- Home Care, and Executive Director and EVP- Beauty and Personal Care South Asia.
In 2022, she was appointed Global Chief Marketing Officer, Beauty and Wellbeing, followed by her current role as President, Beauty and Wellbeing from 2024.
Her experience spans global and Indian operations across brands like Surf Excel, Dove, Rin, Axe, Pepsodent, and Comfort, as well as sales leadership for key regions within India.
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.”
