Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL) Managing Director Rohit Jawa saw a 3.75 per cent hike in his total remuneration for the financial year 2024-25, bringing his annual pay package to Rs 23.23 crore, as per the FMCG giant’s latest annual report.

Jawa’s remuneration package comprised a fixed salary of Rs 3.65 crore, allowances worth Rs 11.45 crore, a performance bonus of Rs 3.78 crore, and long-term incentive benefits valued at Rs 2.76 crore. His earnings stood at 146.47 times the median employee salary, marginally lower than the 153.03 times multiple recorded in FY24.

While executive pay increased modestly, the report noted an 8.46 per cent reduction in the company’s permanent workforce. As of March 31, 2025, HUL had 6,604 permanent employees, down from 7,215 a year earlier.

Despite the headcount decline, employee compensation at the median level rose by 8.39 per cent during the fiscal year. Average salary hikes for non-managerial staff stood at 4.62 per cent, excluding increments related to promotions. HUL said that salary revisions were aligned with market standards and linked to the firm’s overall performance.

Softened Urban Demand

Reflecting on the year, Jawa addressed shareholders, stating that the company faced softened urban demand alongside a slow recovery in rural markets. “In this environment, we remained focused on driving volume-led growth and enhancing our competitiveness,” he said.

Chairman Nitin Paranjpe highlighted macroeconomic headwinds, including inconsistent weather, fluctuating commodity costs, and subdued consumer sentiment. Nonetheless, he emphasized that India remains on a strong growth trajectory, driven by digital infrastructure, a growing middle class, and a young, aspirational population.

Looking ahead, Paranjpe said HUL is positioning itself for future growth through strategic investments and portfolio realignment. The company recently acquired skincare brand Minimalist and has exited its Pureit water business. It also plans to separate its ice cream division, which includes brands like Kwality Wall’s and Magnum. For FY25, HUL reported revenue of Rs 60,680 crore and a net profit of Rs 10,644 crore.