In 2022, Leena Nair made history as the first woman and the first Asian to be named Global CEO of Chanel, a $30 billion luxury fashion house.
But what makes Leena’s journey remarkable isn’t just the title. It’s how she got there—with quiet determination, clear values, and a deep belief in inclusive leadership.
Leena was born in Kolhapur, India, and raised in a modest home. Her father was a factory supervisor, and she credits her upbringing for teaching her the value of hard work and humility. Financial security was far from guaranteed, but Leena was determined to pursue an education and build a life filled with purpose.
Her ambitions were not typical for girls growing up in India at the time. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, it was still relatively rare for women to pursue higher education—especially in male-dominated fields like engineering and business. Cultural expectations often steered women toward domestic roles, not corporate careers. Leena, however, had different plans.
From Factory Floors to the Executive Seat
Leena went on to earn her MBA from XLRI Jamshedpur, one of India’s top business schools, where she was one of only a few women in her class. She had to fight to be seen, to be heard, and to be taken seriously. That experience shaped her worldview and laid the foundation for a career grounded in equity and inclusion.
Leena began her career in 1992 as a management trainee at Unilever. At a time when very few women worked on factory floors, she became Unilever India’s first female factory manager. It was a groundbreaking appointment, both for the company and the country. She was often the only woman in the room, navigating workplaces that weren’t built with women in mind.
Over nearly three decades with the company, Leena held leadership roles across both human resources and business functions. In 2016, she was appointed Chief Human Resources Officer, becoming the first female, the first Asian, and the youngest CHRO in Unilever’s history.
“No matter what industry you are in, you are in the people business. Your team is the reason why you can do what you do and do it so well.”
In that role, she oversaw a global workforce of more than 160,000 employees across 190 countries. During her tenure, Unilever increased its share of female managers from 38 percent to 50 percent, a reflection of her commitment to building more equitable workplaces.
Taking on a $30 Billion Dollar Fashion House
In 2022, Leena was named Global CEO of Chanel. Although she had no background in fashion, she brought a strong sense of purpose and a people-first approach to one of the world’s most iconic luxury brands.
Her focus was clear: to lead with intention and to make the fashion industry more inclusive. Within her first year, Chanel significantly increased its annual commitment to Fondation CHANEL, boosting funding from $20 million to $100 million. These funds support global projects that empower women and girls—work that reflects Leena’s deep-rooted belief in equity and opportunity.
Reflecting on her path, she once said, “I would not be standing where I am today if I had not questioned and challenged hierarchy and social norms.” What could have been obstacles—being a woman of color, coming from a modest background, having no fashion experience—became opportunities for transformation.
Giving Back as She Climbs
Throughout her career, Leena Nair has demonstrated a steadfast commitment to empowering others and fostering inclusive growth. Beyond her corporate achievements, she actively engages in philanthropic endeavors and initiatives aimed at creating equitable opportunities worldwide.
Leena serves as a Non-Executive Board Member at BT Group, where she contributes to strategic decisions that influence global communication landscapes. Additionally, she is a member of the Leadership Council at the International Center for Research on Women (ICRW), advocating for gender equity and women's empowerment globally. Her involvement with the Leverhulme Trust further underscores her dedication to supporting education and research initiatives.
Leena also supports the Permits Foundation, an organization that advocates for improved work permit regulations for partners of international employees, facilitating dual careers and promoting workforce diversity.
“We’re all in the same storm, but we not all in the same boat.”
Through these roles, Leena's influence extends far beyond the boardroom. She is redefining what it means to lead, proving that success is most meaningful when it creates space for others to thrive.
Five Leadership Lessons from Leena Nair
Experience Isn’t Everything
Leena became the CEO of a global fashion house without fashion experience. Her story proves that leadership is about clarity, courage, and character—not just a traditional resume.Let Your Values Guide You
Leena draws strength from her upbringing and stays grounded in the values that shaped her. Her leadership is rooted in empathy, perspective, and authenticity.Be the First, But Not the Last
Leena has broken barriers throughout her career. But she views those milestones not as endpoints, but as a responsibility to open the door wider for those who follow.Lead with Compassion and Conviction
Whether managing 160,000 employees or guiding a legacy brand, Leena leads with a balance of purpose and heart. She listens, learns, and leads by example.Use Your Platform to Uplift Others
From corporate equity initiatives to global philanthropy, Leena uses her influence to empower women and girls around the world.
Jenny’s Takeaway
Leena Nair’s story reminds us that leadership doesn’t require us to fit a mold. It challenges us to break it and embrace the setbacks.
She did not follow the most obvious path to the top. She forged her own, and along the way, she stayed true to her values, her purpose, and her people.
Her journey is not just a story of personal success. It is a story of service, intention, and the power of bringing others with you.
So here’s your challenge: As you rise in your own career, who are you bringing with you?