FoodBev – Unilever has announced CEO Alan Jope’s decision to retire from the company at the end of 2023, after five years at the helm.
The announcement comes less than a year after a failed attempt by Unilever to buy GlaxoSmithKline’s consumer healthcare business and just months after activist investor Nelson Peltz joined the company’s board.
Jope has held various leadership roles at Unilever, including president North Asia, president Africa, Russia and the Middle East, and president of the beauty and personal care division.
Unilever chairman, Nils Andersen, said: “Alan’s retirement next year will mark the end of a remarkable career with Unilever. Under his leadership, Unilever has made critical changes to its strategy, structure and organisation that position it strongly for success. This work continues, and we will thank Alan wholeheartedly for his leadership and contribution to our business when he leaves next year.”
The board will now start a formal search for a replacement for Jope, considering both internal and external candidates.
