On December 1, 2023, Hanneke Faber joined Logitech as Chief Executive Officer, bringing over 30 years of global leadership experience across consumer, B2B, and e-commerce sectors. Faber succeeded interim CEO Guy Gecht, who returned to his board duties, including leading the Technology and Innovation Committee.
Prior to joining Logitech, Faber led Unilever's US$14 billion Nutrition business as Group President. Under her leadership, the division saw significant growth and innovation, including the disposal of the global Tea business and acquisitions like Horlicks and Boost and The Vegetarian Butcher. Faber's tenure at Unilever also included a stint as President of the Foods and Refreshment Division.
Her career has been marked by a strong focus on innovation and sustainability, aligning well with Logitech's values. Wendy Becker, Logitech's Chairperson of the Board, expressed confidence in Faber's ability to drive innovation and advance the company's culture for long-term growth.
Faber holds an MBA and a bachelor's degree in communications from the University of Houston. Her previous roles include President of Unilever Europe and executive positions at Ahold Delhaize and Procter and Gamble. She also serves on the Board of Directors of Tapestry and was recognized by Fortune Magazine as one of the most influential international women in business in 2021.
Expressing her enthusiasm for her new role, Faber said, “It’s a well-loved global brand that stands for user-focused design, engineering and innovation with an enviable reputation in sustainability. I cannot think of a more exciting time to be a part of the company's future growth. Emerging technologies expand opportunities across hybrid work, video conferencing, gaming and streaming for Logitech and our users."
Faber's strategic vision for Logitech includes capitalizing on new ways of working post-COVID-19, the growing gaming market, and advancements in AI. She highlighted the importance of hybrid working setups for personal workspace products and video conferencing. The gaming market's expansion to include more diverse demographics, such as women and older adults, presents significant growth opportunities.
Faber emphasized AI's role in enhancing internal productivity and product development. Logitech's recent launch of the Logi AI Prompt Builder, a shortcut to ChatGPT, exemplifies how AI can improve user experience with their products. Additionally, AI's impact on audio and video quality, such as two-way noise cancellation and intelligent video conferencing equipment, will drive future innovations.
Under Faber's leadership, Logitech aims to double its business by 2031 while reducing its carbon footprint by 50%. She plans to streamline the organization, focusing on key areas like personal workspace, gaming, and enterprise solutions. The company will also invest in its B2B capabilities, building on its disruptive video conferencing products.
Logitech's commitment to sustainability includes carbon labeling its products and advocating for industry standards. Faber believes that standardization is crucial for reducing complexity and costs, benefiting both consumers and corporate clients.
As CEO, Faber was initially based in Logitech's Switzerland headquarters before relocating to Silicon Valley. She is committed to enhancing Logitech's global presence, emphasizing flexibility in work arrangements, and maintaining a close connection with employees and customers worldwide.
Faber's appointment as CEO marks a new chapter for Logitech, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and strategic growth in key markets. Her extensive experience and visionary leadership are expected to drive the company forward, building on its strong foundation and unlocking new opportunities for long-term success.