Unilever CEO says growth remains ‘top priority’ as he announces retirement plans
Unilever CEO Alan Jope will be retiring from his role at the FMCG giant at the end of next year, after five years heading up the parent company of Marmite, Pot Noodle and Dove soap.
Jope has informed the board of his intention to retire at the end of 2023, saying that growth will remain his “top priority” in the coming months. The board will now proceed with a formal search for a successor, during which it will consider both internal and external candidates.
Unilever chairman Nils Andersen said: “Unilever has seen improved performance, enabled by its clear strategic choices and a significant company transformation.
“The board will now conduct an orderly succession process and support Alan and the management team in further driving the performance of Unilever.”
“Alan’s retirement next year will mark the end of a remarkable career with Unilever,” Andersen continued.
“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.”
Unilever CEO Alan Jope said: “As I approach my fifth year as CEO, and after more than 35 years in Unilever, I believe now is the right time for the board to begin the formal search for my successor.
“Growth remains our top priority, and in the quarters ahead I will remain fully focused on disciplined execution of our strategy and leveraging the full benefits of our new organisation.”
Unilever recently admitted it would have to raise prices by up to 11% as it looks to ease the pressure of rising supply chain costs including raw materials, energy prices and fuel.
The company said its costs would rise by billions of pounds this year, warning that the outlook for how much prices might increase in turn is both “uncertain and volatile”.
