Unilever has appointed Fernando Fernandez, a veteran executive with 37 years of service to the company, as its new chief executive. Fernandez will take over from Hein Schumacher, who stepped down after less than two years in the top job.
Fernandez was born and raised in Argentina and studied economics at the University of Buenos Aires. He has held various positions across Unilever’s verticals, including finance, marketing, and supply chain management.
The company’s chairman, Ian Meakins, praised Fernandez’s “decisive and results-oriented approach” and tasked him with executing Unilever’s growth strategy. Analysts welcomed the move, citing Fernandez’s experience and track record of success in leading the Beauty and Wellbeing division.
However, some analysts noted that the change may create uncertainty around first-quarter performance and M&A plans. Despite this, they expressed optimism about Fernandez’s ability to drive long-term improvements for the company.
Source: https://www.reuters.com/business/retail-consumer/who-is-unilevers-new-ceo-fernando-fernandez-2025-02-25