Colgate-Palmolive elevates Prabha Parameswaran to Vice Chair

Global consumer goods major Colgate-Palmolive Ltd has elevated Prabha Parameswaran to the newly created role of Vice Chair. 

The appointment marks a pivotal moment not just for the company but also for Indian representation at the highest echelons of global corporate leadership. Parameswaran, who began her career with Colgate in India in 1995, will serve in this strategic advisory role until her planned retirement on October 1, 2025.

 Her new mandate is to help drive Colgate’s long-term transformation and ensure a seamless leadership transition over the next year.

Parameswaran brings to the role nearly three decades of rich global experience, having led Colgate’s businesses across five continents. She has served as President of the company’s Europe Division and Africa-Eurasia Division, and also held leadership positions in South Asia, Greater Asia and the United States. Her diverse stints have seen her managing both growth markets and mature economies, making her one of Colgate’s most globally seasoned executives.

Prior to taking on the Vice Chair role, she served as Group President, Growth & Strategy, where she was responsible for the company’s Global Skin Health business and also led core global functions including R&D, supply chain, IT, ESG, digital and data, mergers and acquisitions, and marketing. She played a central role in shaping Colgate’s five-year strategic roadmap, with a sharp focus on digital acceleration and innovation-led growth.

Parameswaran is widely recognized for her inclusive leadership style and her ability to build future-ready teams. Her elevation not only reflects Colgate-Palmolive’s faith in her vision and stewardship but also underscores the rising influence of Indian-origin leaders in global boardrooms.