Written on: February 25, 2025 by SprayTM
Unilever announced that Hein Schumacher is stepping down as CEO and as a Board Director on March 1, 2025, by mutual agreement, and will leave the company on May 31. Fernando Fernandez, currently CFO & Executive Director, will assume the position of CEO effective March 1.
SCHUMACHER
“It has been a privilege to lead Unilever,” said Schumacher.
“We have made real progress and I am proud of what we have achieved in a short period of time. With a clear strategy, a portfolio reset in motion and a strong leadership team in place, I look forward to seeing Unilever move from strength to strength in the future.”
Prior to becoming CFO in January 2024, Fernandez was President of Beauty & Wellbeing, one of Unilever’s fastest growing businesses. In previous roles as President Latin America, CEO Brazil and CEO Philippines, he led some of the company’s best performing markets.
FERNANDEZ
“Being appointed as CEO of Unilever is an honor,” said Fernandez.
“I would like to thank Hein for his values-led leadership and the performance focus he has brought to the business. I wish him every success for the future.”
A thorough internal and external search process is being initiated to appoint a permanent CFO. Srinivas Phatak, currently Unilever’s Deputy CFO & Group Controller, will become acting CFO effective March 1.
