Unilever CEO Hein Schumacher has stepped down after less than two years in the role, amidst efforts to boost lackluster sales and profits. Schumacher will be replaced by Chief Financial Officer Fernando Fernandez on March 1, with Chairman Ian Meakins expressing confidence in Fernandez’s ability to lead through its Growth Action Plan. This plan aims to cut costs and improve profitability. Schumacher’s departure comes as Unilever works to streamline operations, including a planned spin-off of its ice cream business and a reduction of 7,500 office-based roles.