Paul Polman AGM speech

Good morning everyone – I am delighted to be here.

It is a great honour – and responsibility – to lead Unilever, together with my strong management team, some of whom are present here today.

This is, undoubtedly, a great company. From the Chairman and Board to my Unilever colleagues, I am grateful for all the support I have received in my first few months on the job.

During this period, I have spent time getting to understand:

1.  The portfolio of brands and categories we are in

2.  The business in the top countries of which I have visited 15 of the top 20

3.  The innovation capabilities with visits to key R&D facilities in Vlaardingen, Port Sunlight, Colworth and Shanghai – 4 of the 5 big ones

4.  The organisational strength and I have met many of our key people and leaders that make up the backbone of this organisation.

I am encouraged by what I see. All the elements are there to succeed and succeed consistently. 

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