Fernando Fernandez has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer of Unilever, succeeding Hein Schumacher. Currently serving as Chief Financial Officer, he will officially step into the CEO role in May. Before taking on the CFO position in early 2024, Fernandez led Unilever’s Beauty & Wellbeing Business Group, overseeing key strategic initiatives and market growth.
With a career at Unilever spanning decades, Fernandez has held leadership roles across various regions, including the Philippines, Brazil, and Latin America. In January 2025, his responsibilities expanded to include Supply Chain and Procurement, Digital & Technology, and Business Services. An economist from the University of Buenos Aires, he brings a wealth of experience in financial strategy, business operations, and market expansion.
Fernandez will be based in London as he takes on the new leadership role, focusing on strengthening Unilever’s global market presence and enhancing brand growth. His appointment comes as part of the company’s long-term vision to drive innovation and operational excellence. Additionally, Unilever announced that Srinivas Phatak, the current Deputy CFO and Group Controller, will serve as Acting CFO.
Outgoing CEO Hein Schumacher, who took charge in mid-2023, will step down in March and officially depart in May. His tenure saw a focus on business transformation and strategic initiatives. With Fernandez now at the helm, Unilever looks to continue its growth trajectory and reinforce its leadership in the consumer goods industry.