Shailesh Jejurikar’s ascent to President and Chief Executive Officer of Procter & Gamble (P&G) marks an extraordinary moment—not just for the $80 billion+ consumer goods titan, but also for the story of Indian leadership on the international business stage. Born and raised in Mumbai, Jejurikar becomes the first Indian-origin leader to steer P&G in its nearly two centuries of existence, taking charge effective January 1, 2026.
Humble Beginnings and a Global Journey
Jejurikar’s career is a masterclass in longevity and adaptability. After earning his undergraduate degree in commerce from Mumbai University and an MBA from IIM Lucknow, he joined P&G India in 1989 as an assistant brand manager. From there, his journey evolved from the vibrant markets of Mumbai to P&G’s boardrooms in Cincinnati, USA—a 36-year trajectory defined by cross-functional expertise, multicultural acumen, and values-driven leadership.
Key Roles and Achievements
Over the years, Jejurikar has led P&G’s businesses across India, Asia, Africa, and North America. He’s credited with transforming the Fabric & Home Care sector—P&G’s largest and most global business, which includes household names like Ariel, Tide, and Downy. Under his stewardship, these brands posted strong, sustained growth, often in complex, price-sensitive markets.
Notably, Jejurikar’s leadership was instrumental during the pandemic, when household cleaning brands emerged as essential. He scaled global supply chains, fostered rapid innovation, and kept teams motivated across geographies.
Jejurikar has also influenced P&G’s shift toward sustainability. He championed the ‘Ambition 2030’ roadmap focused on climate progress, water conservation, and circular packaging. His commitment to “growth with purpose” is now a hallmark of P&G’s global culture.
A Rare Global Perspective
Few executives have led from so many vantage points: Jejurikar’s stints have included running P&G’s business in India, as well as spearheading the company’s massive enterprise markets group and the Fabric & Home Care business worldwide. This breadth has endowed him with a rare perspective on merging local consumer insights with global best practices—a combination that has been central to P&G’s success in emerging economies.
Industry insiders often note his inclusive, people-first leadership style. Jejurikar is described as both approachable and uncompromising when it comes to innovation and execution. Colleagues trust him for his integrity and high bar for performance.
Taking the Helm—and Facing the Future
Assuming the CEO role at a Fortune Global 500 company like P&G is a daunting job at any time; doing so now, amid macroeconomic volatility, rising consumer expectations, and technology-driven change, is “the challenge of a lifetime,” as he recently remarked in interviews.
He follows outgoing CEO Jon Moeller, who moves on to become Executive Chairman. Analysts and industry peers laud this seamless succession plan as proof of P&G’s deep bench strength and commitment to internal talent development.
Jejurikar’s biggest priorities as CEO will likely include:
- Accelerating digital transformation and e-commerce growth.
- Deepening P&G’s sustainability agenda in new markets.
- Championing diversity and inclusion across a nearly 100,000-strong workforce.
- Nurturing the beloved value of “consumer is boss”—the mantra that has long driven P&G’s innovation engine.
Symbolism and Impact
Jejurikar’s promotion is being hailed not just as a personal achievement, but as a signal of the global acknowledgment of Indian business talent. As the world’s consumer markets continue to globalize, his journey stands as a beacon for the next generation of Indian-origin leaders aiming for global impact.
He often credits his Indian upbringing for his leadership approach—the blend of humility, pragmatism, and drive. Now at the top seat, Shailesh Jejurikar seems poised to deepen P&G’s legendary consumer focus while shaping the company’s bold new future for billions worldwide.
