Indian CEOs Highlighted At India-France Innovation Forum
  • French President Emmanuel Macron spoke about India’s global influence during the India-France Innovation Forum held in Mumbai. He stated that many leading global companies are headed by executives of Indian origin.
  • Macron mentioned that Indian executives hold the position of CEO at Alphabet Microsoft IBM Adobe and Palo Alto Networks. He also highlighted that the global CEO of the French luxury brand Chanel is from Maharashtra. He said that India is not only participating in global innovation but also leading it. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar were present at the event.

Leena Nair: CEO of Chanel

  • Leena Nair holds the position of Global CEO at Chanel. She was born in Kolhapur which is a town located in Maharashtra. She became the first woman of Indian origin to lead the French luxury brand.
  • She took charge of Chanel four years ago. Her appointment received global attention because she did not come from a traditional fashion background.

Early Life and Education

  • Leena Nair grew up in a small town in Maharashtra. She decided to pursue engineering despite societal expectations. She traveled around 12 kilometers daily by bicycle to attend college.
  • He later studied at Xavier College where he earned his master’s degree and received a gold medal for academic excellence.

Career at Hindustan Unilever

  • Leena Nair began her professional journey with a summer internship at Hindustan Unilever (HUL). She continued her career with the company while rising through multiple leadership positions during her entire time there.
  • She encountered obstacles which caused people to doubt her capability throughout her profession. She continued to advance her career path by taking on increasingly difficult tasks. Her work eventually led her to London where she gained international recognition.

Leadership at Chanel

  • Leena Nair later joined Chanel as its Global CEO. At the time of her appointment, some questioned her lack of direct experience in the fashion industry.
  • Under her leadership, Chanel continued its growth and profitability. She managed the company with a focus on strategy, people management, and brand strength.
  • Leena Nair has described her journey as meaningful and rewarding. Her career reflects steady progress through education, discipline, and leadership development.