Unilever Seeks Visionary Head of Leadership Development in London
This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and forward-thinking leader to significantly influence the future of leadership development at Unilever, a global powerhouse with a legacy spanning over a century. If you are passionate about nurturing talent, driving cultural transformation, and making a tangible impact on a company whose products touch billions of lives daily, this role might be the perfect catalyst for your next career move.
Why This Role is a Career Game-Changer:
- Strategic Impact at Scale: As the Head of Leadership Development, you will be instrumental in shaping Unilever's leadership agenda, directly aligning with the company's overarching strategy. This isn't just about delivering training; it's about architecting the very culture and performance edge of a global organization.
- Innovation Hub: You will have the unique privilege of managing Unilever's iconic Four Acres leadership center. This historical yet forward-looking venue offers a dynamic environment to innovate, experiment with new technologies, and create industry-leading learning experiences. Imagine blending Unilever's rich heritage with cutting-edge leadership competencies.
- Global Influence and Network: This role offers significant global exposure. You'll collaborate with senior business and HR leaders worldwide, building and leveraging a robust internal and external network. This is your chance to be at the forefront of leadership development thought leadership.
- Purpose-Driven Leadership: Unilever's commitment to making sustainable living commonplace is deeply ingrained. As a leader in development, you will play a crucial role in embedding this purpose into leadership behaviors, fostering a culture of "Performance with Care."
- Data-Driven Approach: You will partner with data science teams to build robust success profiles and assessments, ensuring that leadership development is evidence-based and drives measurable business results. This offers a chance to apply scientific rigor to human capital development.
Key Considerations for Aspiring Candidates:
- Deep Expertise Required: The ideal candidate will possess significant experience in shaping leadership development within a multinational context. A strong background in instructional design, the end-to-end learning cycle, and a proven track record of delivering leadership solutions with business impact are essential.
- Behavioral Science Acumen: While not strictly mandatory, a background in behavioral sciences or psychology will be a significant advantage. This role requires a scientific understanding of how to influence behavior and foster lasting change. Experience with designing and implementing leadership assessments is also highly valued.
- Architect of Culture: Beyond program delivery, you will be a key architect of Unilever's culture. This requires a deep understanding of how leadership behaviors translate into organizational performance and a strategic approach to embedding desired norms.
- Stakeholder Management and Influence: The ability to partner effectively with senior business leaders and HR teams is paramount. You will need strong influencing skills to drive strategic initiatives and champion the importance of leadership development.
- Adaptability and Future-Focus: Unilever is committed to evolving. You will need to embrace and drive innovation in learning approaches, experiment with new technologies, and adapt strategies to ensure Unilever remains at the cutting edge of leadership development.
- The London Landscape: The role is based in London, with a future move to a new, sustainable campus site in Kingston planned for 2026. Candidates should consider the implications of this exciting, long-term campus development.
What Unilever Offers:
Beyond a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package (including pension, annual bonus, subsidized gym membership, discounted staff shop, and shares), Unilever champions a flexible and hybrid working environment. They are committed to employee well-being, offering a variety of support programs and development opportunities. Unilever is a strong advocate for diversity and inclusion, striving to create a family-friendly and equitable workplace for all.
This Head of Leadership Development position represents a significant opportunity to leave your mark on a globally respected organization, to lead from the front in shaping talent, and to contribute to a business with a powerful purpose. If you are ready to take on a role of immense strategic importance and influence, this could be your moment to shine.