Happy birthday Rohit Jawa!: The visionary behind Unilever’s global growth

Rohit Jawa, the Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Hindustan Unilever Limited, turned a year older today.

Jawa, who took charge of the role in April 2023, is also the President, Unilever, South Asia, and a member of the Unilever Leadership Executive (ULE). One of the most prominent business leaders in Inda as well as globally, Jawa is known for his ability to integrate the strength of traditional markets with digital technologies and future-fit business models.

Before joining as the chief of HUL, Jawa was the Chief of Transformation for Unilever in London since January 2022.

He was also the Chairman of Unilever Philippines where he led the business to become one of the top 10 markets for Unilever globally.

Having done a Bachelor of Science from St. Stephens College, Delhi and an MBA from Faculty of Management Study (1986-88), Jawa recently got an Executive Education Certificate in Advanced Management Program, Business Administration and Management, General from Harvard Business School.

In 1988, Jawa started his career with HUL as a management trainee and has a proven track record of sustained business results across - India, South-East Asia, and North Asia. In June 1988, he became General Manager for the Western Region in-charge of the sales and operations. As EVP for North Asia & Chairman for Unilever China, he led a significant transformation of Unilever China into a competitive, profitable, and consistent business, now Unilever’s 3rd biggest globally.

After staying in the role for nearly 16 years, he became Vice President for Unilever Vietnam from May 2004 to Oct 2006. He was Head of the Home Care business and Marketing function for Unilever Vietnam.

Jawa, throughout his marketing career, has contributed to the industry in the Asian region, including serving as an expert speaker and judge in several regional advertising and marketing forums. Internationalist Magazine recognised him as one of 'The Asia 50' marketers in 2013. He was also awarded the 'CEO Excel' Award for 2015 by the Philippines chapter of the International Association of Business Communicators for leadership in business communication.

In his free time, Rohit enjoys music, learning about different cultures, engaging with stories and travelling.