Newbitt takes over from David Sprent, who has taken on the role of vice president supply chain for food with Unilever North America.
She is now responsible for the supply chain in the UK and Ireland, comprising more than 10 factories manufacturing consumer goods across four categories: foods, refreshment, home care and personal care.
More than 20 years
Newbitt has spent most of her career, spanning more than 20 years, within Unilever – after joining as a graduate trainee, working in foods and personal care categories. Most recently, she was vice president supply chain for Unilever’s savoury category.
Newbitt said planned investments made it a particularly exciting time to start the role.
“Having worked for Unilever for a number of years, I am looking forward to returning to the UK and Ireland business and overseeing our supply chain,” she said. “We are building a new personal care factory in Port Sunlight, our historic home, this year so it is a particularly exciting time to take on the role.”