EMBATTLED Unilever chief Alan Jope (pictured) is to step down from the consumer goods giant at the end of next year.

It comes a year after Jope headed a botched attempt to buy GSK's consumer healthcare business.

The Marmite and Dove maker has also faced scrutiny from shareholders in recent months for prioritising sustainability over core growth.

The company's share price shot up just shy of two per cent yesterday.

Unilever chairman Nils Andersen said the firm had seen "improved performance, enabled by its clear strategic choices and a significant company transformation,"

and that Jope's retirement would "mark the end of a remarkable career" with Unilever.

"Under his leadership, Unilever has made critical changes to its strategy, structure and organisation that position it strongly for success. This work continues, and we will thank Alan wholeheartedly for his leadership and contribution to our business when he leaves next year," Andersen added.

Jope added: "As I approach my fifth year as chief executive, and after more than 35 years in Unilever, I believe now is the right time for the board to begin the formal search for my successor. The board will now proceed with a formal search for a successor and will consider both internal and external candidates."

Rival Reckitt is also fielding applications for a new CEO, after last month announcing that chief Laxman Narasimhan would step down.

(c) 2022 City A.M., source Newspaper