Rajneet Kohli, former CEO of Britannia Industries, is joining Hindustan Unilever (HUL) as the executive director of its foods and refreshment division. He will take over the role on April 7, replacing Shiva Krishnamurthy, who will be leaving the company to pursue an external opportunity. Kohli has over 30 years of experience in consumer and retail, and has previously worked with companies such as Asian Paints, Coca-Cola, and Jubilant FoodWorks.
As the new executive director, Kohli will lead HUL’s foods and refreshment division, which includes brands such as Kissan ketchup, Bru coffee, and Horlicks malt drinks. The division reported a revenue of Rs 15,292 crore in fiscal 2023-24, making it the second-largest contributor to HUL’s turnover, which stood at nearly Rs 60,000 crore.
Kohli has a strong track record of driving product innovation and digital capabilities, which will be crucial in leading HUL’s foods and refreshment division to the next phase of growth and transformation. His extensive experience in managing large foods and beverages businesses will be beneficial in navigating the competitive food and bakery segment.
HUL has made several high-profile appointments in 2023, including the appointment of Rohit Jawa as its managing director and CEO, and Harman Dhillon as executive director of its beauty and wellbeing division. With Kohli’s addition to its executive team, HUL is poised to further strengthen its position in the consumer goods market.