Unilever names Syeda Durdana Kabir as HR Director for Bangladesh

Unilever, a global FMCG company, has appointed Durdana Kabir as the new Director of the HR function in Bangladesh, effective from September 2023.

In her new role, Durdana will be a part of UBL's Management Committee, as well as the South Asia HR Leadership Team.

Welcoming Durdana to her new role, Zaved Akhtar, Chairman and Managing Director at UBL, stated, “I warmly welcome Syeda Durdana Kabir as our HR Director and as a valuable addition to the Management Committee of UBL. Our company is committed to fostering a culture where everyone can thrive, where all individuals are treated fairly and respectfully, and where their unique qualities are celebrated. People are at the core of our business, and Unilever Bangladesh has been recognized for decades as the School of Leaders, and we have been the top employer of choice. I believe that Durdana's extensive experience in both global and local markets will significantly contribute to Unilever's commitment to pioneering the future of the workplace and propelling the company to new heights.”

Durdana brings over 25 years of industry expertise in various HR business partnerships and leadership roles. Her core experience encompasses collaborating with global, regional, and local stakeholders within complex matrix structures.

Before her new appointment, Durdana served Nestle for over 9 years. She held key leadership roles, including Regional Head of Talent and Organisational Development in Central & West Africa for over two years, Head of Talent and Organisational Development in Malaysia & Singapore for four years, and Human Resources Director (Country HR Strategy and Business Partnering) in Bangladesh for over two years.

On the academic front, Durdana holds an MA in English Literature from the University of Dhaka, Bangladesh and an Executive MBA from North South University, Bangladesh.