Unilever Indonesia communications director Kristy Nelwan departs after six years

Kristy Nelwan (pictured) has concluded her tenure as communications director at Unilever Indonesia, marking the end of a six-year chapter that spanned corporate communications, corporate affairs, and leadership in equity, diversity and inclusion (ED&I).

Nelwan confirmed her departure in a LinkedIn post, reflecting on a journey shaped by purpose-driven work and long-term impact. “Six years with Unilever have shaped me in ways that I will always value,” she wrote.

She joined Unilever Indonesia in 2020, drawn by the company’s Sustainable Living Plan, which she described as a long-held aspiration. “What began as a distant aspiration, sparked years ago when I first read about the Sustainable Living Plan, became one of the most meaningful chapters of my career,” Nelwan said.

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During her time at the FMCG giant, Nelwan led the communications and corporate affairs function through a period of heightened scrutiny on corporate reputation, sustainability, and social impact. She also served as chair of Unilever Indonesia’s ED&I Board from 2023 until January 2026.

Reflecting on her team’s work, Nelwan said: “I’m proud of what we built as the communications and corporate affairs team - anchored in sound judgment, deep integrity, and a strong sense of responsibility. This team understood the assignment: reputation isn’t built in moments of ease; it’s built quietly, consistently, and together.”

She highlighted initiatives ranging from inclusive business practices to environmental and MSME development. Nelwan described her decision to leave as deliberate and values-driven, adding that she is “moving forward with intention” and will share more details in due course.

Prior to Unilever, Nelwan held senior communications roles across Indonesia’s corporate landscape, including vice president of corporate communications at Gojek, head of corporate communications at Coca-Cola Amatil, and external corporate communications manager at Prudential Indonesia. Earlier in her career, she also worked in television as a presenter and producer.

MARKETING-INTERACTIVE has reached out to Unilever Indonesia for more information.

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