Unilever, a visionary global leader committed to making sustainable living commonplace, has set the stage for an exciting chapter by appointing Mr. Anshul Asawa as Country Head for Thailand. In this crucial role, Mr. Asawa doesn’t just oversee Unilever Thailand’s strategic vision, fiduciary, and statutory aspects, but he also champions the local culture, nurtures talent, and harnesses the collective strength of the organization. His mission is clear: to drive Unilever Thailand towards extraordinary performance, cementing its stature as a global leader in sustainable business while solidifying its presence and leadership in the country.
Additionally, Mr. Asawa steps into the role of General Manager for the Home Care Southeast Asia Business Unit. Leveraging his extensive expertise in Home Care categories from across the globe, he’s uniquely poised to make impactful changes. With an impressive 29-year career at Unilever, Mr. Asawa brings a treasure trove of experience in marketing, sales, digital commerce, and general management across local, regional, and global roles. His proven track record in driving performance, managing change, and ensuring profitability through sharp strategies, innovation, market development, and front-end execution makes him the ideal leader for this significant role. His deep understanding of the consumer goods industry, combined with his passion for building strong brands and driving sustainable growth through people, promises to be invaluable as Unilever continues to serve its consumers in this dynamic country and region.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Mr. Anshul Asawa shared, “I am truly honoured to lead Unilever Thailand. This country presents significant opportunities for growth, and I am thrilled to be part of this remarkable team on our transformative journey. Together, we will ascend to new heights, driven by a shared commitment to creating meaningful impact. Every decision we make, every innovation we champion, and every connection we forge will resonate not only within our organization but also in the lives of our consumers, customers, and the vibrant communities we serve.”
Anshul’s journey with Unilever began in the Indian Foods and Refreshments business. A brief stint with the global customer team in the Netherlands set the stage for his appointment as General Manager for the Eastern region in India in 2007. There, he played a pivotal role in digitizing and transforming the rural channel, leading the ‘Shakti’ program, which empowered women in remote rural areas to become micro-entrepreneurs, significantly improving their livelihoods. In 2010, he advanced to roles such as Vice President of Marketing Operations for South Asia, Regional Category Vice President for South Asia, and Global Vice President for Radiant. His leadership spearheaded long-term portfolio transformation initiatives such as Surf Excel Easywash, the entry into the liquids format, and the repositioning of Radiant.
In 2015, Anshul’s journey led him to Europe as Vice President of Marketing for Home Care, where he led the business across all European countries. Three years later, he became the Global Vice President for Digital, eCommerce, and Customer Development for the Home Care Business Group, as well as the General Manager for the Home Care Professional business. As the head of Customer Development for the Business Group, Anshul has been instrumental in creating a robust Customer Development program and capabilities focused on Customer Strategy and Planning over the past year.
On a personal note, Anshul shared, “I am married to Shilpi, and we have two daughters, Vani and Diya, aged 25 and 19. We look forward to living in the beautiful country of Thailand.” With his extensive professional background and personal commitment, Mr. Asawa is ready to lead Unilever Thailand into an exciting new era.
I’m pretty skeptical about these corporate appointments. How can we be sure that Anshul Asawa will actually follow through with the sustainability mission and not just use it as a PR front?
Well, Emily, he does have a long track record in the industry. Maybe it’s possible he genuinely cares about sustaining Unilever’s consumer impact.
John, a long track record doesn’t necessarily mean he’s committed to sustainability. Corporations often greenwash to look good!
True, @green_living98. I guess actions always speak louder than words. Let’s see if he can prove us wrong.
Exactly, Emily. Words are cheap. I hope the Thai market keeps a close eye on his actions and holds him accountable.
Another big exec shuffles into a new role. But does anyone else notice how these companies keep recycling the same old faces?
Sure, Sam. But these ‘same old faces’ bring proven experience. Maybe it’s needed for such key roles.
Proven experience, yes. But don’t you think fresh perspectives are equally crucial for innovation?
Having someone with such a comprehensive global background will surely bring fresh energy and insights to Thailand!
Alex, fresh energy is one thing, but understanding the local context is another. Hope he adapts quickly.
Fair point, Nina. I guess we’ll see soon enough how well he can resonate with Thai consumers.
I agree with @Nina M. Knowing the global market is great, but let’s see if he can connect with the local culture effectively.
It’s fascinating how Unilever has such a structured path for their leadership. Anshul seems well-groomed for the role.
Peter, structured paths are important, but they sometimes limit creativity. Do you think his journey is too conventional?
That’s a valid concern, Liz. But maybe the balance of structure and creativity is what makes successful leaders.
I think a mix of both is necessary for long-term growth and sustainability. Let’s hope Anshul can strike that balance.
I’m impressed! His efforts with the ‘Shakti’ program in India sound genuinely impactful. If he can bring similar initiatives to Thailand, it could be a game-changer.
Maya, the ‘Shakti’ program was indeed revolutionary. But can a similar model work in Thailand? Each country’s context is unique.
That’s true, @AsianTiger. Adapting successful models from one country to another often requires significant customization.
I think it could work if adapted properly. Thailand has a lot of untapped potential in rural entrepreneurship.
I bet this is all about the money. Unilever talks a big game about sustainability, but at the end of the day, they’re just like any other profit-driven corporation.
A profit-driven corporation, yes, but one that recognizes the value of sustainability can still make a positive impact. It’s about finding the balance.
I agree with Sophia. It might be both. Companies can drive profit and sustainability together, though it’s a challenging tightrope walk.
Unilever has always seemed to be at the forefront of corporate social responsibility. I think Anshul’s appointment is a step in the right direction.
Does anyone know what specific innovations he’ll be focusing on in the Home Care sector for Southeast Asia?
Blake, specifics are often kept hush until they’re ready to announce to the market. Guess we’ll just have to wait and see.
His personal story is inspiring. From small rural projects to heading a major region—not something you see every day.
Definitely inspiring, Julia. It shows how dedication and innovative thinking can lead to high positions.
True, Thomas. Stories like his are motivational and can inspire future leaders.
Will Asawa’s leadership truly make a difference in Thailand? Or are we just seeing another corporate face with no real change?
Bennett, only time will tell. Optimists will hope for change, cynics will expect the status quo.
I hope he creates programs to further empower local talent. Thailand has a lot of potential that needs the right push to be unlocked.
Unilever’s move to frequently shuffle global leaders could be both a strength and a weakness. What do you guys think?
Steve, I’d say it’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, it brings in fresh ideas; on the other, it might lack consistent leadership.
Carlos, exactly. Consistency is key to long-term projects and vision. Frequent changes can disrupt ongoing initiatives.