Leena Nair Paving the Way for Diversity in Luxury Fashion
Leena Nair is transforming Chanel’s leadership by balancing innovation with heritage, focusing on diversity, digital transformation and sustainability while maintaining the brand's legacy and driving its global growth.
Leena Nair has emerged as one of the most influential figures in the luxury fashion industry, having taken the helm of Chanel as CEO in 2021. A British-Indian executive, Nair brings a wealth of experience from her previous role as Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) at Unilever, a position she held for several years. Her appointment to lead Chanel marks a significant milestone, as she is the first woman of color to lead a major global luxury brand.
Nair’s career began at Unilever nearly three decades ago, where she initially focused on human resources in South Asia before advancing to leadership roles in London. Her strategic leadership in human resources and organizational development at the company earned her recognition as a top business leader, appearing on several prestigious lists, such as Forbes India’s W-Power list and Fortune’s Most Powerful Women list.
At Chanel, Nair balances the luxury house’s rich legacy with the need for modernization. She stepped into the role after the passing of the legendary designer Karl Lagerfeld in 2019 when the company needed to adapt its internal culture and approach to innovation while preserving its heritage. Nair’s leadership style is noted for its emphasis on talent management, diversity and inclusivity. She is also highly involved in digital transformation efforts, reshaping the luxury sector’s operations and consumer engagement strategies.
Under her guidance, Chanel has sought to maintain its stature by focusing on craftsmanship while navigating the pressures of global pricing and sustainability demands. Nair’s recent statements reflect her commitment to ensuring pricing fairness globally while maintaining Chanel’s iconic craftsmanship. Her leadership continues to drive the brand’s growth, even as it faces the broader challenges of the luxury sector.
As a trailblazer, she is redefining leadership in an industry long dominated by tradition, bringing a fresh perspective that blends innovation with a deep respect for heritage. Her focus on talent management, inclusivity and digital transformation is driving Chanel forward, ensuring it remains relevant in a rapidly changing market. Nair’s advocacy for diversity, gender equality and global pricing fairness further strengthens her legacy as a leader who drives business growth and also champions a more inclusive and forward-thinking approach to the luxury sector. With her vision, Chanel is poised for continued success and evolution in the years to come.
