Susim Mukul Datta, the former Chairman of Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL), passed away in Mumbai on Saturday, July 5. Datta’s remarkable career spanned decades, during which he led more than 21 companies and left an indelible mark on India’s corporate landscape.

Datta’s professional journey began in the 1950s with Hindustan Lever, gradually rising through the organisation to become a Chairman between 1990 and 1996. HUL witnessed a significant transformation under his leadership, evolving into a diversified FMCG conglomerate. He played a pivotal role in leading key mergers and acquisitions, including the landmark Brooke Bond–Lipton tea merger, which firmly established HUL’s leadership in the industry.

Beyond HUL, Datta’s career spanned a wide array of industries. He held the position of Non-Executive Chairman at several prominent firms, including IL&FS Investment Managers Ltd, Tata Trustee Co. Pvt Ltd, Philips India Ltd, and Castrol India Ltd. His leadership also extended to companies like Linde India Ltd and Peerless General Finance & Investment Co. Ltd, showcasing his versatility, CNBC reported.

Datta’s tenure at Castrol India was another highlight of his career, where he served as chairperson until stepping down in 2019 after years of guiding the automotive and industrial lubricant company.

Who Was Susim Mukul Datta?

Susim Mukul Datta made a significant contribution towards shaping the trajectory of Indian business. A postgraduate in Science and Technology from the University of Calcutta, Datta’s expertise and insight were sought after by some of the country’s most prominent companies.

Throughout his illustrious career, Datta held the distinguished position of a Chairman at IL&FS Investment Managers, Philips India Ltd, and Hindustan Lever Ltd.

He also contributed as a board member to organisations such as Rabo India Finance Ltd, Peerless General Finance & Investment Co Ltd, and Atul Ltd. His executive roles spanned companies like Philips Electronics India Ltd, Bhoruka Power Corp Ltd, and Wockhart Hospitals Ltd.

Datta also participated in several professional bodies, including the All India Management Association, Indian Institute of Chemical Engineers, and the Institution of Engineers India, CNBC reported.