Who is Priya Nair? Meet Hindustan Unilever’s First Woman CEO Set to Take Charge from Rohit Jawa From August 1

Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) has appointed Priya Nair as its next Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, making history as the first woman to lead the company in its 92-year legacy. Nair will assume the role on 1 August 2025, succeeding Rohit Jawa, who steps down on 31 July 2025.

In addition to her new role, Nair will join the HUL Board, subject to necessary approvals, and will continue to serve as a member of the Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE).

Who is Priya Nair? Know Her Journey

Currently, Nair serves as President of Beauty & Wellbeing Division at Hindustan Unilever, managing one of the company's key global portfolios and driving growth across international markets.

Priya Nair With Hindustan Unilever for Three Decades

Priya Nair brings with her an illustrious 30-year career at Unilever, having joined HUL in 1995. Over the years, she has held numerous leadership roles across key business segments including home care, beauty, and personal care.

Nair began her career in roles such as Consumer Insights Manager and Brand Manager for major brands including Dove, Rin, and Comfort. She later led marketing for the laundry business and took on senior responsibilities in oral care, deodorants, and customer development.

Her progression within the organisation saw her serve as General Manager for Customer Development in HUL's western region. She subsequently rose to Executive Director and CCVP positions for Home Care, and later for Beauty & Personal Care in South Asia.

Owing to her impressive leadership in India, Nair was elevated to global roles within Unilever. In 2022, she was appointed Global Chief Marketing Officer for Unilever's Beauty & Wellbeing division, one of the company's fastest-growing global units. By 2023, she was promoted to President of the division.

Priya Nair's Educational Background

Priya Nair holds a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) in Accounts and Statistics from Sydenham College of Commerce and Economics (1987-1992). She completed her MBA in Marketing from Symbiosis Institute of Business Management, Pune (1992-1994), and has also attended Harvard Business School for an executive program in Business Administration and Management.

Priya Nair To Be First Female CEO of HUL

Commenting on her appointment, Nitin Paranjpe, Chairman of HUL mentioned, "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."

Nair will succeed Rohit Jawa, who has served as HUL's CEO and MD since 2023. Under his leadership, the company achieved volume-led growth amid a challenging macroeconomic environment characterised by muted urban demand and a sluggish recovery in discretionary categories.