Head of Digital UI

Unilever
Full-timeβ€’Singapore, Singapore

πŸ“ Job Overview

Job Title: Head of Digital UI

Company: Unilever

Location: Singapore, Singapore

Job Type: Regular, Full Time

Category: Digital Transformation & Technology Leadership

Date Posted: March 12, 2026

Experience Level: 10+ Years

Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Role Summary

  • This is a strategic leadership role responsible for the end-to-end digital, data, and AI agenda for Unilever International (UI), a high-growth business unit.

  • The role involves defining and executing a multi-year digital transformation roadmap, focusing on driving business outcomes through technology innovation and AI adoption.

  • Key responsibilities include leading the SAP S/4HANA ERP transformation, integrating various technology platforms, and building a scalable data architecture.

  • The Head of Digital UI will champion data governance, cybersecurity, and operational excellence, fostering a culture of experimentation and continuous learning within the digital team.

  • This position requires a founder's mentality, resilience, and exceptional communication skills to translate complex technical concepts into business value and influence senior stakeholders.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The original job title "Head of Digital UI" is reframed to "Head of Digital UI" for clarity within the operations and technology leadership context. The role transcends traditional UI/UX to encompass a broad digital transformation mandate. The emphasis on "Unilever International" highlights a specific business unit with entrepreneurial pace and global reach, implying a need for adaptable and scalable digital solutions.

πŸ“ˆ Primary Responsibilities

  • Digital Strategy & Roadmap: Define and own the multi-year digital, data, and AI strategy, ensuring alignment with UI’s commercial objectives and growth ambitions.

  • Investment Portfolio Management: Manage the digital investment portfolio, prioritizing initiatives that deliver both quick wins and long-term strategic platform bets.

  • ERP & Platform Transformation: Lead the critical transition to SAP S/4HANA, designing fit-for-purpose ERP capabilities tailored for a complex, cross-border B2B operation, and rationalize/integrate the technology landscape including CRM (Salesforce), planning (Anaplan/Kinaxis), data (Databricks), and BI tools.

  • Data & AI Leadership: Build a robust and scalable data architecture, from ingestion and integration to governance and self-service consumption, and drive AI adoption across the value chain, including demand forecasting, pricing optimization, anomaly detection, and generative AI for productivity enhancements.

  • Delivery & Operational Excellence: Establish and manage a lean, high-velocity Agile delivery framework with clear release cadences and cost discipline, oversee vendor and delivery partner relationships, and embed cybersecurity, data privacy, and regulatory compliance into all initiatives.

  • Team & Culture Development: Build, mentor, and inspire a high-performing digital team, fostering a culture of experimentation, continuous learning, and collaboration, and serve as the critical translation layer between technical and commercial stakeholders.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The primary responsibilities have been expanded to detail the strategic and execution-oriented nature of the role, emphasizing the core pillars of digital transformation, data, AI, and ERP modernization crucial for a global business unit like Unilever International. Keywords such as "digital transformation," "SAP S/4HANA," "data architecture," "AI adoption," and "Agile delivery" are integrated to align with operations and technology recruitment searches.

πŸŽ“ Skills & Qualifications

Education:

  • Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Business Administration, Analytics, or a related field.

Experience:

  • Minimum of 10 years of progressive experience in senior digital, data, or technology leadership roles.

  • Proven track record of owning a digital P&L, successfully building teams from scratch, and delivering enterprise-scale digital transformation initiatives.

  • Demonstrated experience leading large-scale Agile delivery frameworks with third-party system integrators.

Required Skills:

  • Digital Strategy: Ability to define and articulate a comprehensive digital, data, and AI strategy aligned with business objectives.

  • Data & AI Fluency: Deep hands-on understanding of modern data platforms (e.g., Databricks, data lake architectures), AI/ML concepts, and their application in business contexts like demand forecasting and generative AI.

  • ERP Transformation: Proficiency in leading major ERP transformations, specifically with SAP S/4HANA, understanding its implications for cross-border B2B operations.

  • Agile Methodologies: Expertise in implementing and managing Agile delivery frameworks at scale, ensuring efficient project execution and stakeholder satisfaction.

  • Stakeholder Management: Exceptional ability to influence and collaborate with senior leadership, commercial teams, and global market stakeholders.

  • Leadership & Team Building: Demonstrated success in building, mentoring, and inspiring high-performing, cross-functional technology teams.

Preferred Skills:

  • CRM Expertise: Deep familiarity with CRM platforms, particularly Salesforce, and their integration into broader digital ecosystems.

  • Planning Tools: Experience with advanced planning solutions such as Anaplan or Kinaxis for connected planning and integrated business planning.

  • Microsoft Power Platform: Proficiency in leveraging the Microsoft Power Platform for business process automation and analytics.

  • Cybersecurity & Data Privacy: Strong understanding of cybersecurity principles, data privacy regulations (e.g., PDPA, GDPR), and compliance frameworks relevant to multi-market operations.

  • FMCG/B2B Domain Knowledge: In-depth understanding of FMCG value chains (marketing, order-to-cash, finance, supply chain) and cross-border B2B operational complexities.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The skills section is structured to differentiate between essential qualifications and preferred expertise, providing clarity for candidates. Operations-specific keywords like "ERP transformation," "SAP S/4HANA," "Agile delivery," "data governance," and "FMCG value chains" are integrated. The emphasis on "founder's mentality" and "resilience" reflects the entrepreneurial nature of Unilever International.

πŸ“Š Process & Systems Portfolio Requirements

Portfolio Essentials:

  • Digital Transformation Case Studies: Showcase examples of leading significant digital transformations, detailing the scope, challenges, strategic approach, and quantifiable business outcomes achieved.

  • Data Strategy & AI Implementation: Present initiatives where you defined and executed a data strategy, including the development of data architectures and the successful implementation of AI/ML solutions for business impact.

  • ERP Migration Leadership: Provide evidence of leading large-scale ERP migrations, particularly SAP S/4HANA, highlighting your role in strategy, planning, execution, and change management.

  • Cross-Functional Process Optimization: Demonstrate how you’ve used digital solutions to optimize complex cross-functional business processes (e.g., order-to-cash, supply chain planning, marketing activation) across multiple markets or business units.

  • Team Building & Leadership Impact: Include examples of building and scaling high-performing technology teams, showcasing your leadership style and impact on team culture and performance.

Process Documentation:

  • Strategic Planning Frameworks: Document the frameworks and methodologies used for developing multi-year digital, data, and AI strategies, including stakeholder alignment and investment prioritization processes.

  • Agile Delivery Models: Detail your approach to implementing and managing Agile delivery frameworks at scale, including release planning, sprint management, and continuous improvement mechanisms.

  • Data Governance Policies: Outline your experience in establishing robust data governance policies, ensuring data quality, security, and compliance across diverse operational environments.

  • Vendor & Partner Management: Showcase your processes for selecting, managing, and holding third-party vendors and delivery partners accountable for achieving defined outcomes.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This section is tailored to operations and technology leadership roles, emphasizing the need for a portfolio that demonstrates strategic thinking, execution capability, and leadership impact. The focus is on tangible outcomes and process-driven approaches, critical for evaluating candidates in transformation roles.

πŸ’΅ Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range:

Benefits:

  • Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance for employees and eligible dependents.

  • Retirement Savings Plan: Contributions to a provident fund or similar retirement savings scheme, aligned with Singaporean regulations.

  • Performance-Based Bonuses: Annual bonus opportunities tied to individual and company performance.

  • Long-Term Incentives: Potential for stock options or long-term incentive plans, reflecting the executive leadership nature of the role.

  • Professional Development: Generous budget for training, conferences, certifications, and continuous learning to support career growth in digital, data, and AI.

  • Generous Leave Policy: Paid time off, including annual leave, sick leave, and public holidays, in accordance with local labor laws and company policy.

  • Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Confidential counseling and support services for employees facing personal or work-related challenges.

Working Hours:

  • Standard working hours are typically 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday. However, given the strategic and leadership nature of this role, flexibility is expected, with potential for extended hours or weekend work during critical project phases or for global stakeholder engagement.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: Salary range is estimated based on industry standards for comparable executive roles in Singapore, considering the experience level and scope of responsibility. Benefits are detailed to reflect typical offerings for senior positions in multinational corporations. The "founder's mentality" implies a need for flexibility in working hours.

🎯 Team & Company Context

🏒 Company Culture

Industry: FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods), with a strong focus on global distribution, e-commerce, and emerging markets through its Unilever International division.

Company Size: Unilever is a large, multinational corporation with over 120,000 employees globally. Unilever International operates with the agility of a scale-up within this larger structure, creating a unique dynamic.

Founded: Unilever was founded in 1929 through the merger of Dutch Margarine Unie and British Lever Brothers. Unilever International, as a distinct growth engine, operates with a more recent, entrepreneurial focus.

Team Structure:

  • The Head of Digital UI will lead a dedicated digital, data, and AI team within Unilever International, likely comprising specialists in areas such as data science, AI engineering, digital marketing, platform management, and Agile delivery.

  • This team will report directly to a senior executive within UI and will work closely with other functional leaders (Sales, Marketing, Supply Chain, Finance) and global market teams.

Methodology:

  • Data-Driven Decision Making: Emphasis on leveraging data analytics and AI for insights to drive strategic and operational decisions across all pillars (Marketing, Customer Experience, Planning, Operations, Employee Experience).

  • Agile & Lean Operations: Adoption of Agile methodologies for rapid development, deployment, and iteration of digital solutions, coupled with a focus on operational efficiency and cost discipline.

  • Customer-Centricity: A core principle, ensuring all digital initiatives are designed to enhance both consumer and customer experiences.

  • Innovation & Experimentation: Encouragement of a test-and-learn approach, embracing new technologies and methodologies to drive continuous improvement and unlock new growth opportunities.

Company Website: https://www.unilever.com/ (Corporate), https://www.unilever.com/international/ (Unilever International)

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The company context is framed to highlight the dual nature of Unilever – a global giant with an entrepreneurial, fast-paced division (Unilever International). This duality is crucial for candidates to understand the operational environment and the need for both strategic long-term planning and agile execution.

πŸ“ˆ Career & Growth Analysis

Operations Career Level: This role represents a senior executive-level position within the digital transformation and technology leadership domain. It is a critical function for driving growth and operational efficiency in a dynamic, global business unit. The scope extends beyond typical IT management to encompass strategic business enablement through digital and AI.

Reporting Structure: The Head of Digital UI will report to a senior executive within Unilever International, likely the Chief Digital Officer or a similar senior leader responsible for overall business growth and strategy. They will also have significant dotted-line reporting and collaboration with the global UI Leadership Team and the central Unilever "One Tech" organization.

Operations Impact: This role has a direct and significant impact on Unilever International's revenue growth, market penetration, operational efficiency, and overall competitive advantage. By modernizing digital capabilities, optimizing processes through AI and automation, and enhancing customer/consumer experiences, the role directly contributes to business performance and profitability.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Executive Leadership Advancement: Successful tenure in this role can pave the way for higher executive leadership positions within Unilever, potentially at the group level or in other major business units, especially in areas of digital strategy, transformation, or global operations.

  • Deep Specialization: Opportunity to become a recognized expert in digital transformation, AI adoption, and ERP modernization within the FMCG sector, building a strong personal brand and network.

  • Global Strategic Influence: Influence the digital direction of a multi-billion dollar global business, shaping strategic investments and driving innovation across numerous markets.

  • Cross-Functional Expertise: Gain deep insights and experience across various business functions (Marketing, Sales, Supply Chain, Finance) through close collaboration, fostering a holistic understanding of business operations.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This analysis focuses on the career trajectory and impact specific to operations and technology leadership roles, emphasizing strategic influence and growth potential within a large multinational.

🌐 Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based at the Unilever Campus in Singapore, which is likely a modern, corporate office environment designed for collaboration and productivity. Given Unilever's global presence, it will be equipped with advanced communication and collaboration tools.

Office Location(s): Unilever Campus, Singapore. This strategic location in Asia positions the role to engage with regional markets and leverage Singapore's status as a technology and business hub.

Workspace Context:

  • Collaborative Environment: The workspace will foster collaboration among cross-functional teams, including marketing, sales, supply chain, and finance. Expect open-plan areas, meeting rooms, and digital collaboration tools.

  • Technology-Rich: Access to cutting-edge technology, including high-performance computing for data analytics and AI, robust network infrastructure, and advanced communication systems.

  • Global Connectivity: Opportunities to connect and collaborate with colleagues and stakeholders across numerous international markets through virtual meeting platforms and digital communication channels.

Work Schedule: While the standard work week is Monday to Friday, the nature of a global role and a "founder's mentality" business unit implies a need for flexibility. Expect to engage with teams across different time zones, potentially requiring early morning or late evening calls, and to dedicate extra time during critical project phases.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: The description of the work environment is tailored to a corporate headquarters in Singapore, emphasizing collaboration, technology, and the global nature of the role, which are critical considerations for operations and technology professionals.

πŸ“„ Application & Portfolio Review Process

Interview Process:

  • Initial Screening: A review of your CV and application by the recruitment team to assess alignment with core requirements, particularly experience in digital transformation, leadership, and relevant technologies.

  • Hiring Manager Interview: An in-depth discussion with the hiring manager (likely a senior executive) focusing on your strategic vision, leadership capabilities, experience with large-scale transformations (ERP, data, AI), and understanding of the FMCG/B2B landscape.

  • Panel Interview: A session with a panel of key stakeholders, including business leaders from UI and potentially representatives from Unilever's central technology function. This will assess your ability to collaborate, influence, and translate business needs into digital solutions.

  • Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare and present a strategic response to a business challenge relevant to Unilever International's digital transformation goals. This assesses strategic thinking, problem-solving, and presentation skills.

  • Final Round/Executive Interview: A final conversation with very senior leadership to confirm cultural fit, executive presence, and strategic alignment.

Portfolio Review Tips:

  • Quantify Impact: For every project or initiative in your portfolio, clearly articulate the business problem, your role, the solution implemented, and, most importantly, the quantifiable results achieved (e.g., revenue growth, cost savings, efficiency improvements, market share increase). Use metrics relevant to operations and business outcomes.

  • Showcase Transformation Journey: Highlight projects that demonstrate your ability to lead significant change, from strategy definition and stakeholder buy-in to execution, adoption, and stabilization. Focus on ERP migrations, data platform builds, or AI integration.

  • Demonstrate Leadership & Teamwork: Include examples that illustrate your leadership style, how you built and mentored teams, and how you fostered collaboration across diverse functions and geographies.

  • Tailor to UI's Context: Research Unilever International's specific challenges and growth areas. Frame your portfolio examples to show how your experience directly addresses their needs, such as expanding into new markets, optimizing cross-border logistics, or enhancing e-commerce capabilities.

  • Concise & Focused: Present a curated selection of your most impactful work. For each case study, be ready to discuss the strategic rationale, technological choices, operational challenges, and lessons learned in detail.

Challenge Preparation:

  • Understand UI's Business: Thoroughly research Unilever International: its mission, markets, brands, growth strategy, and current digital initiatives. Understand the unique challenges of operating in a "white-space growth engine" environment.

  • Strategic Frameworks: Be prepared to discuss strategic frameworks for digital transformation, data utilization, AI adoption, and ERP modernization.

  • Operational Scenarios: Anticipate questions about managing complex global operations, driving efficiency through automation, and implementing robust data governance in a multi-market setting.

  • Leadership & Influence: Prepare examples of how you have influenced senior stakeholders, managed change resistance, and built consensus for digital initiatives.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This section provides actionable advice for candidates, focusing on how to present their experience and prepare for the interview process, specifically for a senior operations and technology leadership role. The emphasis on quantifiable results and strategic alignment is crucial.

πŸ›  Tools & Technology Stack

Primary Tools:

  • ERP Systems: Deep expertise with SAP S/4HANA is critical, including understanding its implementation, integration, and operational impact on core business processes. Experience with other ERPs may be relevant for understanding legacy systems or broader integration needs.

  • CRM Platforms: Proficiency with Salesforce is explicitly mentioned, requiring knowledge of its capabilities for sales, marketing, and customer service integration within a B2B context.

  • Data Platforms: Strong familiarity with modern data architectures and platforms, such as Databricks, data lakes, and cloud-based data warehousing solutions (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP data services).

  • Analytics & BI Tools: Experience with business intelligence tools for reporting and visualization (e.g., Power BI, Tableau) and advanced analytics platforms.

  • Microsoft Power Platform: Familiarity with this suite for business process automation, custom application development, and data analysis.

Analytics & Reporting:

  • Data Warehousing: Understanding of data warehousing principles and technologies to support enterprise-wide reporting and analytics.

  • Business Intelligence: Ability to design and interpret reports and dashboards that provide actionable insights for marketing, sales, and operations.

  • Data Visualization: Skill in using tools to create clear, impactful visualizations that communicate complex data to diverse audiences.

CRM & Automation:

  • Salesforce: Expertise in configuring, customizing, and integrating Salesforce for CRM needs.

  • Process Automation: Experience with tools like the Microsoft Power Platform or other workflow automation engines to streamline business processes.

  • Integration Technologies: Knowledge of APIs, middleware, and integration platforms (e.g., MuleSoft, Dell Boomi) to connect disparate systems (ERP, CRM, planning tools).

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This section details the specific technology stack and tools expected for a Head of Digital role, emphasizing enterprise-grade systems critical for operations and transformation.

πŸ‘₯ Team Culture & Values

Operations Values:

  • Founder's Mentality: Embrace an entrepreneurial spirit, taking ownership, acting with speed, and making decisive actions even with incomplete information, aligning with UI's scale-up ethos.

  • Customer-Centricity: A deep commitment to understanding and serving both consumers and business customers, ensuring digital solutions enhance their experience and drive value.

  • Data-Driven Excellence: A belief in leveraging data and analytics as the foundation for strategic decision-making, performance measurement, and continuous improvement across all operations.

  • Agile & Experimental: A willingness to embrace change, experiment with new technologies and approaches, and learn rapidly from both successes and failures to drive innovation.

  • Collaboration & Inclusion: A commitment to working effectively across diverse teams, geographies, and cultures, fostering an inclusive environment where all voices are heard and valued.

Collaboration Style:

  • Translational Leadership: Act as a bridge between technical teams and business stakeholders, translating complex technical concepts into understandable business implications and vice versa.

  • Cross-Functional Partnership: Proactively engage with leaders and teams across marketing, sales, supply chain, finance, and HR to ensure digital strategies are integrated and supportive of overall business goals.

  • Global Market Engagement: Foster strong working relationships with operational teams in over 40 markets, understanding their unique needs and challenges to deliver scalable, relevant digital solutions.

  • Vendor & Partner Synergy: Cultivate productive, outcome-focused relationships with technology vendors and delivery partners, ensuring alignment and efficient execution of projects.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This section highlights the values and collaboration styles that are crucial for success in a dynamic, global, and entrepreneurial business unit, emphasizing how these align with operations and technology leadership expectations.

⚑ Challenges & Growth Opportunities

Challenges:

  • Pace of Change: The rapid evolution of digital technologies, AI, and market dynamics requires continuous adaptation and strategic foresight to maintain competitive advantage.

  • Global Complexity: Managing digital transformation across 100+ countries, each with unique market conditions, regulatory environments, and infrastructure capabilities, presents significant operational challenges.

  • Legacy Systems Integration: Integrating modern digital platforms with existing enterprise systems, particularly during the SAP S/4HANA migration, requires careful planning and execution to avoid disruption.

  • Talent Acquisition & Retention: Building and retaining a high-performing digital, data, and AI team in a competitive talent market, especially in specialized areas like AI and ERP transformation.

  • Driving Adoption: Ensuring widespread adoption and effective utilization of new digital tools and AI solutions across a diverse global workforce requires strong change management and training initiatives.

Learning & Development Opportunities:

  • Executive Leadership Development: Access to Unilever's comprehensive leadership development programs, executive coaching, and opportunities to gain broader business unit leadership experience.

  • Cutting-Edge Technology Exposure: Direct involvement with emerging technologies in AI, machine learning, cloud computing, and data analytics, positioning you at the forefront of digital innovation.

  • Global Business Acumen: Deepen understanding of diverse international markets, consumer behaviors, and operational nuances within the FMCG sector.

  • Strategic Influence: Opportunity to shape the digital future of a significant global business unit, impacting revenue, profitability, and market leadership.

  • Industry Networking: Engage with industry leaders, technology partners, and peers through conferences, forums, and Unilever's extensive professional network.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This section proactively addresses potential challenges and frames them as opportunities for growth and skill development, which is valuable for operations professionals seeking roles with significant impact and learning potential.

πŸ’‘ Interview Preparation

Strategy Questions:

  • "How would you define and prioritize the key digital, data, and AI initiatives for Unilever International over the next three years, considering our growth ambitions and operational complexities?" (Focus on strategic frameworks, prioritization criteria, and alignment with business goals.)

  • "Describe your approach to leading a large-scale ERP transformation, such as SAP S/4HANA, in a complex, cross-border B2B environment. What are the critical success factors and potential pitfalls?" (Highlight experience with ERP projects, change management, and operational integration.)

Company & Culture Questions:

  • "Given Unilever International's 'scale-up with global reach' model, how would you foster a culture of innovation and agility within your digital team while ensuring robust governance and compliance?" (Address leadership style, team building, and balancing speed with control.)

  • "How do you build trust and effectively influence senior commercial stakeholders who may have varying levels of digital literacy?" (Prepare examples of stakeholder management, communication strategies, and translating technical concepts.)

Portfolio Presentation Strategy:

  • Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear structure: Business Challenge -> Your Strategy/Role -> Solution Implemented (Technology & Process) -> Quantifiable Results (Metrics!) -> Key Learnings.

  • Focus on Operations Impact: Emphasize how your digital initiatives directly improved operational efficiency, reduced costs, increased revenue, enhanced customer satisfaction, or mitigated risks. Use specific metrics.

  • Highlight Leadership & Collaboration: Be ready to discuss how you led teams, managed stakeholders, and partnered with vendors to achieve success.

  • Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Anticipate detailed questions about the technical architecture, implementation challenges, financial justifications, and operational rollout of your portfolio examples.

πŸ“ Enhancement Note: This section provides targeted interview preparation advice, including example questions and presentation strategies, specifically designed for a senior operations and digital transformation role.

πŸ“Œ Application Steps

To apply for this operations position:

  • Submit your application through the provided link on Unilever's careers portal.

  • Curate Your Operations Portfolio: Select 2-3 key projects that best showcase your experience in digital transformation, ERP modernization (especially SAP S/4HANA), data strategy, or AI implementation. Ensure each project clearly demonstrates quantifiable business outcomes and your leadership role.

  • Tailor Your Resume: Highlight keywords and achievements directly relevant to this role, such as "digital strategy," "SAP S/4HANA leadership," "AI adoption," "Agile delivery," "cross-border B2B operations," and "stakeholder management." Quantify your accomplishments wherever possible.

  • Research Unilever International: Deeply understand their business model, growth objectives, key brands, target markets, and current digital initiatives. Prepare to discuss how your vision aligns with their strategic priorities.

  • Practice Your Presentation: Rehearse presenting your portfolio case studies, focusing on clear communication, impactful storytelling, and demonstrating how your expertise can drive value for Unilever International.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.


Application Requirements

Candidates must have a minimum of 10 years in senior digital, data, or technology leadership roles, with FMCG or cross-border B2B experience strongly preferred. A Bachelor's degree is required, with a preference for an MBA or equivalent postgraduate qualification, alongside deep fluency in modern data platforms and ERP transformation.