Unilever boss Alan Jope to retire subsequent yr

Alan Jope is to retire as chief govt of Unilever on the finish of 2023, after greater than 35 years on the client items group.

The maker of Hellmann’s mayonnaise and Cif cleansing merchandise on Monday stated it might start its search to switch Jope, who took the helm in January 2019 after the departure of Paul Polman.

“Alan’s retirement subsequent yr will mark the top of a outstanding profession with Unilever,” stated chair Nils Andersen.

“Beneath his management, Unilever has made essential adjustments to its technique, construction and organisation that place it strongly for achievement,” Andersen stated.

Jope joined Unilever in 1985 as a trainee and labored in varied gross sales and advertising and marketing roles. He then headed a number of of the group’s divisions, together with magnificence and private care, and Unilever’s China operations.

“As I method my fifth yr as chief govt, and after greater than 35 years in Unilever, I consider now’s the fitting time for the board to start the formal seek for my successor,” stated Jope, who’s 59.

“Development stays our high precedence, and within the quarters forward I’ll stay absolutely centered on disciplined execution of our technique.”

Jope has come underneath stress from shareholders to enhance Unilever’s efficiency, a frustration compounded after the group failed in its try to purchase GSK’s client well being division for £50bn.