Unilever expands Leandro Barreto’s CMO remit

Unilever is reshaping its senior marketing leadership as it moves into the next phase of its global marketing transformation, with a stronger focus on closer alignment between enterprise strategy and Business Group execution.

From 1 January 2026, Leandro Barreto will expand his responsibilities to become Chief Marketing Officer, Unilever and Beauty & Wellbeing. Barreto currently serves as Chief Marketing Officer for Unilever’s Beauty & Wellbeing Business Group and will now take accountability for the company’s enterprise-wide marketing agenda.

Leadership shift supports next phase of marketing transformation

The change reflects Unilever’s view that greater ownership within its Business Groups will increase the impact of marketing at a time of continued industry and digital change. Barreto will be tasked with connecting Business Group-level execution with Unilever’s long-term marketing capabilities.

With more than 20 years of marketing experience, Barreto is recognised for building culturally relevant brands and driving creative approaches within the organisation. His expanded remit is intended to build on the foundations established during the past several years of transformation.

Esi Eggleston Bracey to depart after eight years

As part of the transition, Esi Eggleston Bracey will leave Unilever at the end of January 2026, concluding eight years with the company. Eggleston Bracey joined Unilever in 2018 to lead Beauty & Personal Care in North America, where she played a central role in strengthening performance and supporting growth in the US business.

During her tenure as Chief Growth & Marketing Officer, Eggleston Bracey oversaw changes to how Unilever builds demand across its global portfolio. She will work alongside Barreto throughout January to support a smooth handover.

Fernando Fernandez, CEO, Unilever: “I would like to thank Esi for her significant contribution to Unilever and wish her every success in the next chapter of her career. With strong groundwork now in place, I know Leandro will make a big impact in his expanded role as we accelerate desire at scale and turn Unilever into a true marketing and sales machine.”

www.unilever.com

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