Unilever announces that Hein Schumacher is stepping down as Chief Executive Officer and as a Board Director on 1 March 2025. Schumacher, who joined as CEO in July 2023, will be succeeded by Fernando Fernandez, who is currently serving as chief financial officer and executive director. 

Unilever announces that Hein Schumacher is stepping down as Chief Executive Officer and as a Board Director on 1 March 2025.

Unilever announces that Hein Schumacher is stepping down as Chief Executive Officer on 1 March 2025.

Unilever announces that Hein Schumacher is stepping down as Chief Executive Officer and as a Board Director on 1 March 2025. Schumacher, who joined as CEO in July 2023, will be succeeded by Fernando Fernandez, who is currently serving as chief financial officer and executive director. 

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Hein for resetting Unilever’s strategy, for the focus and discipline he has brought to the company and for the solid financial progress delivered during 2024. Hein introduced and led a significant productivity programme and the commencement of the Ice Cream separation, both of which are fully on track,” said Unilever Chairman Ian Meakins.

Hein Schumacher confirmed the news, saying it was a privilege to lead Unilever. “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.”

There is no change to Unilever’s 2025 outlook or the company’s medium-term guidance. Hein will continue to receive his current level of Fixed Pay up to the cessation of his employment on 31 May 2025. He will then be eligible for a payment in lieu of the remainder of his notice period.

Who Is Fernando Fernandez?

With over thirty-seven years at Unilever, Fernando Fernandez’s leadership has been tested during challenging times, including navigating the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and supply chain disruptions. Having worked in different regions and roles within Unilever, Fernandez brings a global perspective to the new position as CEO of the consumer goods firm. 

Prior to becoming CFO in January 2024, Fernando had a successful tenure as President of Beauty and 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, delivering strong financial results while developing exceptional talent.

“The Board has been impressed with Fernando’s decisive and results-oriented approach and his ability to drive change at speed… He has a strong track record of performance and portfolio management, a love of brands and a profound knowledge of Unilever’s operations,” said Unilever Chairman Ian Meakins. “Having worked with Fernando closely over the last fourteen months, the Board is very confident in his ability to lead a high performing management team, realise the benefits of the GAP with urgency, and deliver the shareholder value that the company’s potential demands.”

“Being appointed as CEO of Unilever is an honour. Our focus will be on building a future-fit portfolio with an attractive growth footprint and delivering unmatched functional and perceivable superiority across our top 30 power brands,” said Fernando Fernandez. “I have full confidence in our team’s ability to propel Unilever to a global industry-leading position and create substantial value for our shareholders.”