Unilever has appointed Srinivas Phatak as its permanent chief financial officer, putting a company veteran in the key role as it navigates a major corporate overhaul and pushes for growth.
Phatak, who had been acting CFO since February 2025, takes the position effective immediately, the company said Tuesday.
The appointment comes as the consumer goods giant prepares to spin off its ice cream division, which includes the Magnum and Cornetto brands, into a standalone company by a mid-November target.
Phatak will also be tasked with steering the company's growth strategy, which includes a productivity program and a focus on expanding its Beauty & Wellbeing and Personal Care businesses.
"His leadership and constructive challenge will be very valuable in driving consistent volume growth, margin expansion, and advancing our growth story," Chief Executive Officer Fernando Fernandez said in a statement.
The company said its board unanimously agreed Phatak was the best candidate following an internal and external search, citing his strong performance in the interim role.
Phatak will receive an annual fixed pay of 1.175 million euros, plus potential bonuses, according to the company.
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