Ex-Britannia CEO Rajneet Kohli to lead HUL’s foods biz.

Hindustan Unilever Limited (HUL) has named Rajneet Kohli as the Executive Director of its Foods business, effective April 7, 2025. Kohli, former CEO and Executive Director at Britannia Industries, will succeed Shiva Krishnamurthy, who is retiring to pursue external opportunities. With 28+ years of experience in consumer goods and the retail industry, Kohli has been the driving force in enhancing Britannia’s leadership in the food and bakery sector through product innovation and strategic brand extension. He has also been at the helm of Jubilant FoodWorks, The Coca-Cola Company, and Asian Paints, equipping him with the ability to continue driving the growth in HUL’s Foods portfolio. HUL’s second-largest segment, Foods and Refreshment, encompassing brands such as Kissan, Knorr, Brooke Bond, and Lipton, contributed ₹15,292 crore to HUL’s overall revenue of ₹59,579 crore in the fiscal year 2023-24. 

HUL CEO and Managing Director Rohit Jawa welcomed Kohli on board, touting his skills in running mass-scale food and beverage businesses as well as growing the business while leading innovation. This strategic decision reflects HUL’s intention to build a strong leadership pool and further establish itself in the competitive food and beverages business. The new appointment is likely to inject new thinking and cement HUL’s position as a market leader in the business, as the company maintains its emphasis on innovation, sustainability, and customer-led growth strategies.

With changing consumer preferences, increasing demand for healthier and convenient food options, and the rising competition in the market, HUL is keen to enhance its product portfolio, optimize supply chain operations, and drive digital innovation in the Foods segment. Kohli’s expertise in these areas is expected to play a key role in shaping the company’s future strategies.