From IIM Lucknow to P&G CEO: Shailesh Jejurikar Joins the Elite League of Indian-Origin Global Leaders  

Shailesh Jejurikar, an IIM Lucknow alumnus, will become Procter & Gamble’s CEO in 2026, marking another milestone for Indian-origin leaders in global corporations. With 35 years at P&G, Jejurikar rose from assistant brand manager to COO, driving innovation in supply chain and home care.

His appointment reflects the growing influence of Indian executives like Satya Nadella (Microsoft), Sundar Pichai (Google), and Leena Nair (Chanel), who now lead major multinationals. This trend stems from India’s strong management education, adaptability in complex markets, and cross-cultural leadership skills. Jejurikar’s challenge will be steering P&G through sustainability demands, digital transformation, and shifting consumer preferences.

His success, like that of his peers, highlights how merit and diverse perspectives are reshaping global business leadership. For aspiring professionals, his journey proves that long-term vision and operational excellence can break barriers. As Indian executives continue to rise, they redefine corporate power structures worldwide.

From IIM Lucknow to P&G CEO: Shailesh Jejurikar Joins the Elite League of Indian-Origin Global Leaders  

In a landmark move, Procter & Gamble (P&G) has named Shailesh Jejurikar, a 35-year company veteran, as its next CEO, effective January 2026. The India-born executive will succeed Jon Moeller, marking another milestone in the growing trend of Indian-origin leaders steering the world’s most influential corporations.  

The Rise of Shailesh Jejurikar 

Jejurikar’s journey is a testament to perseverance and strategic leadership. A 1989 graduate of IIM Lucknow, he joined P&G as an assistant brand manager and climbed the ranks through pivotal roles across North America, Europe, Asia, and Latin America. His expertise in Fabric and Home Care, along with innovations in supply chain and IT, cemented his reputation as a transformative leader.  

At 58, Jejurikar’s elevation reflects P&G’s confidence in his ability to navigate the evolving consumer goods landscape—a sector grappling with sustainability demands, digital disruption, and inflationary pressures.  

The Expanding Club of Indian-Origin CEOs 

Jejurikar now joins an illustrious group of Indian-origin executives leading global giants:  

• Satya Nadella (Microsoft)  

• Sundar Pichai (Alphabet & Google)  

• Shantanu Narayen (Adobe)  

• Arvind Krishna (IBM)  

• Sabih Khan (Apple COO, appointed June 2025) 

This trend isn’t limited to tech. Pharma leader Vasant Narasimhan (Novartis), Leena Nair (Chanel), and Reshma Kewalramani (Vertex) exemplify India’s widening footprint across industries. Pioneers like Indra Nooyi (ex-PepsiCo) and Harish Manwani (Unilever’s first Indian COO) laid the groundwork for this wave.  

Why Are Indian Executives Thriving Globally? 

• Adaptability: Exposure to India’s complex, diverse market hones problem-solving skills.  

• Education: Institutes like IIMs and IITs cultivate analytical rigor and leadership.  

• Cross-Cultural Acumen: Many, like Jejurikar, have managed teams across continents.  

• Innovation Mindset: From frugal engineering to digital scalability, Indian leaders bring unique perspectives. 

What Jejurikar’s Leadership Means for P&G 

With consumers prioritizing sustainability and value, Jejurikar’s challenge will be to balance P&G’s legacy brands (Tide, Pampers) with agile innovation. His operational prowess suggests a focus on:  

• Supply Chain Resilience: Leveraging AI and localized production.  

• E-Commerce Expansion: Competing with DTC disruptors.  

• Sustainability: Meeting P&G’s 2030 net-zero goals. 

The Bigger Picture 

Jejurikar’s appointment underscores a shift in global corporate culture—where merit and diverse leadership trump traditional pedigrees. For aspiring professionals, his story reaffirms that long-term vision and adaptability can break glass ceilings.  

As Moeller transitions to Executive Chairman, all eyes are on how Jejurikar will script P&G’s next chapter—and further solidify India’s reputation as a cradle of world-class CEOs.