Global consumer giant Unilever is embarking on a significant transformation, including a series of leadership changes, as part of an ambitious action plan aimed at driving faster growth. A major highlight of these changes is the appointment of Fernando Fernandez as the new Chief Financial Officer.
After a rigorous internal and external selection process, Fernando Fernandez, who previously served as President of Unilever’s Beauty & Wellbeing Business Group, steps into his new role, succeeding Graeme Pitkethly, who announced his retirement earlier this year. Fernando will officially assume his position and join the board on January 1st.
Before his current role overseeing one of Unilever’s fastest-growing Business Groups, Fernandez successfully led Unilever’s business in Latin America, following a highly successful tenure as the head of Unilever Brazil from 2011 to 2019. His illustrious career also includes leadership roles in Unilever Philippines and Unilever’s Global Hair Care category.
Hein Schumacher, CEO of Unilever, commented, «Fernando has an outstanding track record throughout his Unilever career, spanning financial, marketing, and general management roles. His deep financial expertise, strategic vision, and strong leadership abilities will play a pivotal role in advancing Unilever’s performance, aligning with our shared determination to drive growth and unlock our potential.»
Concurrently, Unilever has introduced several other leadership changes within the organization. Priya Nair, previously the Chief Marketing Officer of Beauty & Wellbeing, has been appointed as President of Beauty & Wellbeing, succeeding Fernando Fernandez.
Furthermore, Esi Eggleston Bracey, General Manager of Personal Care North America and Head of Country US, takes on the role of Chief Growth and Marketing Officer.
Complementing these leadership shifts, Unilever has unveiled a comprehensive action plan that prioritizes accelerated growth. The initial focus centers on its «Power Brands,» a select group representing 70% of its turnover. The strategy includes investments in innovation while selectively optimizing the brand portfolio, with no plans for major or transformational acquisitions.
The plan emphasizes productivity and simplicity, with a particular focus on strengthening gross margins and reinforcing the company’s commitment to sustainability. This move aligns with the organization’s aim to foster a performance-driven culture, with the management changes integral to this transition.
Unilever anticipates that these strategic adjustments will lead to underlying sales growth of 3-5% with modest margin expansion.
