FMCG Sector Sees CEO Exodus in 2025 Amid Board Pressure for Rapid Results

• The FMCG sector experienced a significant rise in CEO exits in 2025, driven by board pressure for faster results and investor impatience.
• Major Indian firms like Hindustan Unilever, Britannia, and Nestlé India saw leadership changes, including Rohit Jawa, Rajneet Kohli, Varun Berry, and Suresh Narayanan stepping down.
• Globally, companies such as Nestlé, Unilever, Diageo, and PepsiCo also underwent CEO transitions or reorganizations due to weak growth and demand.
• Factors contributing to the churn include slow volume growth, inflation, muted urban demand, higher input costs, and intense competition.
• Boards are increasingly demanding immediate delivery and are less willing to wait for long-term strategies, making leadership accountability paramount.

Why It Matters: Boards are demanding quick results from FMCG leaders, leading to high CEO turnover in 2025.