Alan Jope

Alan Jope is a British business leader best known for serving as Chief Executive Officer of Unilever, one of the world’s most recognised consumer goods companies. Responsible for a business operating across 190 countries and reaching 2.5 billion consumers daily, Alan led major strategic initiatives that strengthened the organisation’s long-term growth and sustainability ambitions. His expertise in leadership, organisational transformation and responsible business has established him as a highly respected keynote speaker and advisor.

Alan’s career began after earning a BA (Hons) in Commerce from the University of Edinburgh and later completing Harvard Business School’s General Management Program. Joining Unilever as a graduate trainee, he progressed through a variety of international leadership roles across Europe, Asia, North America, Africa and the Middle East. He led the company’s China and North Asia business before becoming President of Beauty and Personal Care. His success culminated in his appointment as CEO, where he oversaw the unification of Unilever’s legal structure, accelerated its Prestige and Functional Nutrition businesses and launched the Climate Transition Action Plan.

Alongside his corporate achievements, Alan has built an impressive portfolio of leadership and advisory roles. He serves as Non-Executive Director of Accenture, Board Chair of The Leverhulme Trust, Chair of UNICEF’s Generation Unlimited, Vice Co-Chair of the Consumer Goods Forum, Vice Chair of the WBCSD Executive Committee and a member of the Singapore Economic Development Board Advisory Council. He is also a Visiting Professor at Oxford University’s Saïd Business School and a guest lecturer at the Royal Society of Arts.

Alan brings a global perspective to every stage, combining strategic insight with practical lessons from one of the world’s largest organisations. His engaging delivery, commercial expertise and commitment to sustainable growth make him an influential voice for business audiences worldwide.

Alan offers audiences unparalleled insight into leading complex global organisations, driving innovation and balancing commercial success with social responsibility. Drawing on decades of international experience, he shares practical frameworks for leadership, transformation and long-term growth. His board-level expertise, sustainability credentials and experience overseeing one of the world’s largest consumer businesses allow him to connect with senior executives, entrepreneurs and future leaders alike. Alan’s ability to translate large-scale business challenges into actionable lessons ensures audiences leave inspired, informed and equipped to lead more effectively.

Here are some of the key milestones that define Alan Jope’s remarkable career:

  • 2026 – Advisory Board Council, Imperial Business School
  • 2024 – Board Chair, The Leverhulme Trust
  • 2024 – Board Member, The Global Energy Alliance for People & Planet
  • 2023 – Commissioner, Global Commission on Modern Slavery & Human Trafficking
  • 2023 – Non-Executive Director, Accenture
  • 2022 – Visiting Professor, University of Oxford Said Business School
  • 2019 – CEO, Unilever
  • 2011 – Appointed Unilever’s Leadership Executive
  • 2009 – Led Unilever Operations in China & North Asia
  • 1985 – Joined Unilever