Archive · 13 Jun 2025
Leena Nair's Journey: From Kolhapur to Chanel CEO
Leena Nair, who grew up in India, is now the CEO of Chanel, a famous fashion company.
She began at Unilever, becoming the youngest and first female boss of a big department.
Later, she led Chanel, making her the first woman, Indian, and one of the few non-French leaders there.
She was honored with the CBE by Prince William for her work in the retail sector.
She is a role model for people who want to be successful.
Leena Nair, born in Kolhapur, India, is the Global CEO of Chanel.
Nair was awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) by Prince William.
She started her career at Unilever, eventually becoming its first female, Asian, and youngest Chief Human Resources Officer.
In 2021, she became the first woman, first Indian, and one of the few non-French leaders to head Chanel.
Nair's accolades include recognition from Queen Elizabeth II and Forbes' Most Powerful Women list.
- Who
- Leena Nair.
- What
- Leena Nair, Global CEO of Chanel, was awarded the Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE).
- When
- The CBE was awarded in 2025.
- Where
- She was awarded the CBE in the UK.
- Why
- She received the CBE for her contributions to the retail and consumer sector.
- Name
- Leena Nair
- Birthplace
- Kolhapur, India
- Current Role
- Global CEO of Chanel
- Previous Employer
- Unilever
- CBE Awarded
- 2025
- Education
- MBA from XLRI Jamshedpur