From Unilever to CEO of Chanel: The Unstoppable Rise of Leena Nair

Over Leena Nair’s 30-year career, she has achieved many firsts. When she was appointed the first woman of colour to serve as the global CEO of French ultra-luxury lifestyle brand Chanel in 2021, she created history all across the world. Numerous individuals were shocked by the appointment because Nair had no prior expertise in the fashion sector.   

Nair’s life is the stuff of legend, from becoming the helm of a major fashion company without any prior expertise to venturing into HUL territory where few women braved at the time and surviving the 26/11 terror attack at the Taj Hotel in Mumbai.  

Early Career and Rise at Unilever

From an early age, Leena exhibited exceptional leadership skills and a keen interest in understanding people. This naturally led her to pursue a degree in Human Resources, a field that would allow her to combine her analytical abilities with her passion for human development. After completing her studies, she embarked on a career that would take her across continents and industries, each role shaping her leadership philosophy and preparing her for the global stage.

Leena’s early career was marked by her tenure at Unilever, one of the world’s largest consumer goods companies. Joining as a management trainee, she quickly distinguished herself through her innovative thinking and ability to lead diverse teams. Over two decades, she ascended through various leadership roles, culminating in her appointment as the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at Unilever. In this role, she spearheaded initiatives that transformed corporate culture, emphasized employee well-being, and drove sustainable business practices.

Professional Career

Nair was raised in a society that placed many restrictions on what girls can and cannot accomplish. Her only goal at the moment was to educate herself. There is where she picked up one of the life lessons.

Few could have predicted that a lady from a small village who was born and raised in Kolhapur, Maharashtra, would eventually have such a glitzy career. But in 1992, she became a management trainee at Unilever, and in 2016, she was promoted to chief human resources officer. Additionally, she was the first woman to serve on the management committee for the organisation.

Her three-decade tenure at Hindustan Unilever came to an end with her shift to Chanel. In 2016, she was appointed the company’s “youngest ever, first female, and first Asian” chief human resources officer. The business diva who was recognized by Queen Elizabeth II as one of the most distinguished Indian Business Leaders in the UK—a label she adores—receives the focus from Global Indian. 

Leena continues to offer her unique brand of varied leadership, passion for people, and sense of purpose to the fashion industry today, in 2023, as human-centred leadership becomes more and more crucial to company success. As the 112-year-old French design brand seeks to enter the Chinese and other international luxury markets, she is guiding it toward a more diverse future. The corporation has 27,000 employees worldwide and had US$15.6 billion in revenue in 2021.

Global Recognition and Leadership Philosophy

Her work at Unilever did not go unnoticed. Leena became a global thought leader in human resources, advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. She believed that organizations could achieve remarkable success when they harnessed the full potential of their workforce, and she implemented programs that reflected this philosophy. From talent development to organizational restructuring, her strategies consistently produced measurable results, earning her recognition as one of the most influential HR leaders globally.

Appointment as CEO of Chanel

In 2022, Leena Nair made a groundbreaking move by accepting the position of CEO at Chanel, one of the world’s most iconic luxury fashion houses. This appointment was historic for several reasons. Not only did it make her one of the few women leading a major global luxury brand, but it also marked a significant milestone for Indian professionals on the international stage. Her rise to this role is a testament to her unparalleled expertise, strategic vision, and ability to navigate complex corporate environments.

Leadership and Vision at Chanel

Taking the helm at Chanel, Leena faced the challenge of maintaining the brand’s legacy while steering it toward innovation and growth in a rapidly evolving market. She emphasized the importance of understanding consumer behavior, leveraging digital technologies, and fostering a culture of creativity and inclusivity. Her leadership style is characterized by empathy, strategic foresight, and a commitment to excellence, qualities that resonate with both employees and customers.

Driving Sustainability and Talent Development

Under her guidance, Chanel has embarked on initiatives that blend tradition with modernity. Leena has championed sustainable practices, ensuring that the brand not only delivers luxury products but also contributes positively to the environment and society. She has also focused on talent acquisition and retention, recognizing that the people behind the brand are as important as the products it creates.

Advocacy for Women’s Empowerment

Leena’s influence extends beyond corporate boardrooms. She is an advocate for women’s empowerment, often speaking about the importance of mentorship, resilience, and breaking societal norms. Her journey inspires countless professionals, especially women, to pursue ambitious career goals and challenge conventional boundaries.

Human-Centric Leadership Approach

Throughout her career, Leena has demonstrated a unique ability to balance strategic decision-making with a human-centric approach. She understands that leadership is not just about achieving financial targets but also about creating an environment where individuals can thrive, innovate, and contribute meaningfully. This philosophy has been instrumental in her success and continues to guide her as she leads Chanel into a new era.

Transforming Global Luxury Leadership

Her story is also a reminder of the evolving nature of global leadership. In an increasingly interconnected world, leaders like Leena Nair exemplify the importance of cultural intelligence, adaptability, and a commitment to ethical practices. By embracing diversity and fostering inclusive workplaces, she has shown that corporate success and social responsibility can go hand in hand.

Achievements and Milestones

Leena’s tenure at Chanel is still unfolding, but the impact of her leadership is already evident. She has revitalized the brand’s global strategy, strengthened its market presence, and nurtured a culture that values creativity, sustainability, and human potential. Her vision is not only transforming Chanel but also setting a benchmark for leadership in the luxury industry.

Connection to Roots and Legacy

Beyond her professional achievements, Leena remains deeply connected to her roots. She often shares insights about her upbringing, the lessons learned from her family, and the cultural values that continue to shape her worldview. Her journey from a young girl in India to the CEO of a global luxury brand exemplifies the power of determination, education, and visionary leadership.

Final Thoughts

Once she said “It is very important to dream big. Do not let others tell you, rather you determine how big your dreams should be. Don’t get discouraged if people doubt your abilities, because if I would have, I would have not reached where I am.”  

Leena Nair stayed true to her roots throughout her career, using her platform to encourage and empower aspiring fashion industry members, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds. She gained respect and affection outside the world of fashion for her charity work and dedication to social problems.

Leena Nair’s success story will continue to motivate future generations by demonstrating that anyone can achieve greatness and make a lasting impression on the fashion industry and beyond with unrelenting perseverance, creativity, and a passion for positive change.