Hindustan Unilever Ltd's former chairman, Susim Dutta, passed away in Mumbai. Dutta is responsible for transforming the FMCG sector. He was a leading influence in many mergers and acquisitions. Susim Dutta oversaw the landmark Brooke Bond-Lipton tea deal. It solidified Hindustan Unilever's dominance in the Indian FMCG sector.
Hindustan Lever was the beginning of his career in the 1950s. He was the Chairman from 1990 to 1996. He is known as a prominent business leader and a rural marketing revolutionary. He held leadership roles in over 21 companies. During his time at HUL, he was also the Non-Executive Chairman of several organisations.
The illustrious list includes IL&FS Investment Managers Ltd., Tata Trustee Co. Pvt Ltd., Philips India Ltd., and Castrol India Ltd. His notable career milestones also echoed in Peerless General Finance & Investment Co. Ltd. and Linde India Ltd.
Financial Express states, "In addition to his executive roles, Datta has served on the boards of several prominent companies. He has been a non-executive director at organizations such as Castrol India Ltd, and ICI India Ltd. His extensive boardroom experience reflects his credibility and influence within the business community."
People expressed their condolences on X (formerly Twitter).
The X post read," RIP Susim Mukul (SM) Datta for Chairman Hindustan (Uni)leveraged. Another doyen and icon passes away. A generation disappearing fast."
Another X(formerly Twitter) user stated, "It’s deeply saddening to hear that Mr. Susim Mukul Datta is no longer with us. He was a true institution builder and one of the stalwarts of Indian industry. For those who worked at Hindustan Lever, he left an indelible mark that will not be forgotten. May his soul rest in peace..."
According to the Financial Express, "Throughout his career, Datta has contributed significantly to business strategy, corporate governance, and global expansion. His expertise spans across manufacturing, operations, business development, and international management."
