Mumbai | July 2025 — In a landmark decision that is already making waves in the Indian corporate landscape, Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) has appointed Priya Nair as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This appointment marks a historic first for the FMCG giant, as Nair becomes the first woman ever to lead HUL in its nearly 90-year-old history in India.
Her appointment will be effective from October 1, 2025.
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👩💼 Who is Priya Nair?
Priya Nair is currently the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) of Unilever’s beauty and wellbeing division. She has been with HUL for over 28 years, having joined as a management trainee. Nair has played a pivotal role in transforming brands like Dove, Lux, Lifebuoy, and has led numerous purpose-driven marketing campaigns.
She is widely respected for her consumer insights, brand building expertise, and leadership in sustainability and innovation.
🔝 Key Highlights of Priya Nair’s Career:
- Joined HUL in 1996 as a management trainee
- Became Executive Director – Home Care in 2016
- Led award-winning campaigns for Dove’s Real Beauty, Lifebuoy’s Swachh Bharat, and Love & Care
- Moved to Unilever global role as CMO of Beauty & Wellbeing in 2022
- Championed diversity and inclusion within the company
🏢 What This Means for HUL
HUL, one of India’s largest FMCG companies with over ₹50,000 crore in annual revenues, is undergoing a generational leadership transition. Priya Nair’s appointment is expected to:
- Strengthen the company’s focus on purpose-led brands
- Accelerate digital transformation and consumer engagement
- Drive gender diversity and inclusive leadership
- Expand Unilever’s footprint in beauty, wellness, and sustainability
- In the short term, HUL share price is expected to rise
Nitin Paranjpe, Chairman of HUL, said:
“Priya is a proven leader with deep consumer understanding, a strong track record of growth, and a bold vision for the future of HUL. We’re proud to have her lead the company into its next phase.”
🔍 Industry Reactions
The Indian business community has widely welcomed the announcement:
Kiran Mazumdar Shaw, Executive Chairperson of Biocon Group, tweeted:
“Historic moment! Priya Nair’s appointment as HUL CEO is a massive breakthrough for women in Indian corporate leadership.”
Sridhar Vembu, CEO of Zoho, remarked:
“Merit, performance and perseverance win! Kudos to HUL for leading by example.”
🌍 A Signal to the Industry
Priya Nair’s elevation isn’t just a personal achievement — it signals a broader shift in corporate India toward embracing female leadership in CXO roles. As gender equality in the boardroom gains more attention, HUL’s move could set a powerful precedent for other major Indian and global corporations.
📈 What’s Next for HUL Under Her Leadership?
Here’s what to expect from HUL’s future under Priya Nair:
- Deeper integration of digital and AI in consumer engagement
- Expanding presence in premium personal care and wellness products
- Stronger alignment with ESG goals (environmental, social, governance)
- Continuing to scale rural and tier 2–3 market growth
Conclusion
With her trailblazing career, deep consumer insight, and proven leadership, Priya Nair’s appointment as HUL’s new MD & CEO is more than symbolic—it is a strategic move that reflects the evolution of the Indian business ecosystem.
As she takes the reins, the industry and investors alike will be watching how she shapes the future of one of India’s most trusted and influential brands.
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