The company highlighted that Adeniyi has played a key role in advancing Unilever Nigeria’s sales transformation strategy across the country. He will participate in a handover and gradual transition process with the current Managing Director, Tim Kleinebenne, until the end of 2024.
In remarks regarding the appointment, Bolaji Balogun, Chairman of Unilever Nigeria Plc, expressed his pleasure, stating, “On behalf of the Board of Directors and all employees at Unilever Nigeria, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Tobi Adeniyi on his new role as Managing Director Designate.
“Mr. Adeniyi’s vast experience and remarkable leadership capabilities position him as an excellent choice to guide us toward a promising and even more prosperous future.”
Balogun conveyed the board's confidence that under Tobi’s leadership, Unilever Nigeria will continue to thrive and reach new milestones. He also took the opportunity to thank Kleinebenne for his contributions to the company’s growth and success.
Additionally, Ben Langat, Executive Vice President of Unilever East and West Africa, commented on the transition, stating, “I am pleased that we are moving forward with this transition, which aligns with our strong succession planning strategy at Unilever.
“Tobi possesses a profound understanding of the Nigerian market, and his extensive experience will be instrumental in navigating the path ahead for the business.”
Langat expressed gratitude to Kleinebenne, who is preparing to retire from Unilever. Adeniyi commenced his journey as a Unilever Future Leader in 2009 and has gained extensive experience in various aspects of both strategic and operational supply chain management, as well as commercial operations.
His skill set includes logistics, planning, strategic supply chain management, procurement, and sales, with roles that have taken him to a range of markets, such as Singapore, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
Currently, Adeniyi holds the position of Vice Chairman of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria Export Promotion Group (MANEG) and is also a member of the Institute of Directors (IOD). Additionally, DMO is offering two savings bonds this December.