New Delhi, July 10 -- In a surprise move, Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) on Thursday announced the appointment of Priya Nair as chief executive officer and managing director of the company. Nair is currently president, beauty & wellbeing, Unilever.

Nair, whose appointment comes into effect from 1 August, succeeds Rohit Jawa, who spent two years as HUL's CEO and MD.

She will also join the HUL board, subject to necessary approvals, and continue to be a member of the Unilever Leadership Executive.

Jawa will step down as CEO and MD on 31 July to pursue the next chapter in his personal and professional journey, according to a company statement.

Nair joined HUL in 1995 and held several sales and marketing roles across home care, beauty & well...