Unilever has named the head of its operations in south-east Asia and Australasia as president of its business in western Europe.

Jan Zijderveld, Unilever’s executive vice president for south-east Asia and Australasia, replaces Doug Baillie in western Europe. Baillie has been named as Unilever’s chief HR officer, following the recent departure of Sandy Ogg.

“Jan will bring considerable experience of both Asian and European markets to his new role, building on the competitive position already established, ensuring fast, pan- European delivery of innovation into the marketplace – and integrating the Sara Lee and Alberto Culver acquisitions when the latter has received regulatory clearance,” Unilever chief executive Paul Polman said.

“Doug will bring the customer and consumer focus he has employed to such good effect in transforming the Western Europe business and bringing it back to growth to bear on a critical global role, while his experience in both developed and emerging markets will help us win the war for talent.”