Unilever reorganisation to drive growth in emerging markets
Announces head of category appointments
Unilever has announced changes to its category and go-to-market structure to further support its growth plans in emerging markets. According to the brand owner, its new structure allows for a more efficient roll-out of bigger and more scalable innovations.
“Unilever now has over half its turnover in the emerging markets, where, over the last 10 years growth has been close to double digits. We have an opportunity to better support this footprint of the business to keep our strong momentum with a more globally aligned country and category organisation,” said ceo Paul Polman.
To this end Unilever has appointed Harish Manwani as chief operating officer, with effect from 1 September. Manwani will take responsibility for all markets in order to drive speed-to-market behind further simplification and efficiency.
In addition, the organisation of product categories will be broadened to four. Personal Care, consisting of skin, deodorants, oral and hair care products, will be headed by Dave Lewis, currently president, Americas; existing executive vp Skin, Antoine de Saint Affrique, will be president of the Food category; a newly established Refreshment category will be headed by Kevin Havelock, the current executive vp Ice Cream; while Randy Quinn, executive vp Laundry, will lead the Home Care category.
The new structures will be in place during the third quarter and fully operational before 2012.