What is Next For Unilever's Sustainability Leadership?

After nearly two decades of leading sustainability strategy at one of the world's largest consumer goods companies, Rebecca Marmot is stepping down from her role at Unilever, marking a major transition in the company's leadership approach to environmental and corporate responsibility.

Marmot, who served as Unilever's Chief Sustainability Officer from 2019 before stepping up to become Chief Sustainability and Corporate Affairs Officer in January 2025, has been instrumental in shaping the company's environmental agenda and advocacy efforts across multiple global frameworks.

Leadership transition at Unilever

"In July, I announced that I would be stepping down as Chief Sustainability & Corporate Affairs Officer at Unilever to embark on a new opportunity and now that time has come," Rebecca wrote on LinkedIn.

Her departure represents the end of a major chapter for Unilever's sustainability leadership, one that has seen the company navigate evolving regulatory landscapes and heightened its commitment to global environmental goals.

Rebecca's tenure at Unilever, which began in 2007, has been characterised by her energy and commitment to effect positive change.

She added: "Unilever is a fantastic company with incredible people - I'm proud to have been a part of it for so long.

"I feel hugely grateful and full of energy and optimism. Before leaving, I welcomed onboard and handed over the reins to the wonderful Michael Stewart. I'll be cheering him and the amazing team on as I navigate my next adventure."

Sustainable business practices

During her time at Unilever, Rebecca championed eco-friendly practices and helped the company reach major milestones in sustainability.

Her work spanned the firm's adherence to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, advocacy on European reporting rules and support for a Global Plastics Treaty.

She played a role in shaping the UN Sustainable Development Goals themselves and contributed to momentum around the 2015 Paris Accord.

Beyond climate and plastics, Rebecca has been a vocal advocate for water access, presenting the business case for joint funding at the UN 2023 Water Conference.

She also pushed for a strong EU sustainability reporting framework and called for a robust Global Plastics Treaty.

Her leadership philosophy centred on collaboration. Reflecting her firm belief in the power of collective action to address environmental challenges Rebecca said: "We cannot do this alone."

Prior to joining Unilever, the former CSO worked in PR, consultancy and UK government, then led external affairs at L'Oréal, bringing a wealth of experience in communications and stakeholder engagement to her role.

New leadership takes hold

Michael Stewart has assumed responsibility as Unilever's Chief Corporate Affairs and Communications Officer, joining the company on 1 October.

His remit includes overseeing the development of Unilever's sustainability strategy and leading its global sustainability team, alongside corporate affairs and communications functions.

Michael brings extensive experience from professional services firm PwC, where he oversaw all aspects of external and internal communications, public policy, sustainability and reputation management.

He was a member of PwC's Global Markets Leadership Team, AI Leadership Team, Clients and Industries Leadership Team and Marketing and Brand Council.

Before PwC, Michael spent six years as a member of the global executive committee at Edelman, the world's largest public relations and public affairs company.

During that time, he served three years as President and CEO for Europe and CIS, and three years as Global Vice Chairman, overseeing industries and practices, Edelman Advisory, Edelman Intelligence and the Edelman Trust Barometer.

Michael also spent 12 years at McKinsey, most recently as a Partner and Global Director of Communications and Marketing.

His background includes experience at several social sector and UN-affiliated organisations focused on sustainability and public-private partnerships, including the Prince of Wales International Business Leaders Forum, the UN Global Compact, the inaugural UN Earth Summit, the Centre for Our Common Future and the International Association of Students in Business and Economics.

This leadership transition could signal Unilever's continued commitment to integrating sustainability into its corporate strategy while adapting to new market pressures and regulatory demands.