Zanele Nkomo
Princeton
Summary
Purpose-driven, people-focused, and performance-oriented leader with extensive global FMCG experience. Demonstrated ability in effectively managing cross-functional, matrixed organizations and driving innovation, operational efficiency, and process improvement. Currently serving as the Global Supply Chain/Operations Leader for Listerine, responsible for overseeing innovation, capacity planning, and global alignment to support brand development and operational strategies. Committed advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion, leading the Equity in STEM University Pillar in North America. Passionate about mentoring students and driving cross-functional initiatives with a team of 50+ volunteers. Background in mechanical engineering complemented by strategic thinking, analytical problem-solving skills, and technical expertise. MBA (Cum Laude) graduate with a global perspective, entrepreneurial mindset, and a strong commitment to lifelong learning and empowering others.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Global Operations Leader for Listerine
Kenvue
04.2024
- Oversee global innovation and project management for the Listerine brand, ensuring timely execution of ideation and innovation projects
- Lead capacity assessments for production readiness, including alcohol vs
- Non-alcohol products and resin requirements
- Drive global alignment by coordinating with regional stakeholders to support product and packaging innovations
- Influence portfolio decisions for productivity, efficiency, and long-term strategy improvements
- Establish contingency plans for business continuity and lead investment and sourcing decisions to balance regional needs with cost implications
Operations Segment Lead, Essential Health
Kenvue
01.2023 - Current
- Lead the strategic development and execution of supply chain deliverables, including the3-Year Operating Plan and innovation strategies
- Drive operational efficiency, meeting gross profit (GP) targets and improving service levels
- Partner with Commercial and R&D teams to optimize P&L and improve cashflow, agility, and innovation delivery
Director, Global Program Management
Kenvue
01.2021 - 01.2023
- Spearheaded globally scoped programs, including global chemical resiliency and product reformulations for over1,150 formulations
- Managed cross-functional teams to deliver a $22.8M budget while ensuring innovation timelines were met
- Collaborated with R&D to reformulate and upgrade raw materials for clinical solutions, improving product resilience
Sourcing Unit Director (Make)
Unilever Beauty and Personal Care
01.2021 - 01.2021
- Directed three factories with600+ employees, leading teams in manufacturing, engineering, finance, and planning
- Delivered operational results, achieving15% growth in production volume and $2.2M in additional sales
Plant Manager
Unilever Home and Personal Care
01.2017 - 01.2020
- Drove operational efficiency, achieving an11.9% increase in production volume and a $1.3M improvement in recoveries
- Reduced absenteeism by30% year-over-year and improved Aerosol Plant efficiency from79% to83%
Quality Manager
Unilever Home and Personal Care
01.2015 - 01.2017
- Achieved a40% reduction in supplier non-conformances through world-class manufacturing (WCM) implementation
- Enhanced in-store product quality by reducing defects per million units from101 to82
- Implemented ISO9001 and HACCP systems, ensuring zero marketplace incidents and a37.9% reduction in foreign matter complaints
Unilever Future Leaders Program
Unilever South Africa & UK
01.2012 - 01.2015
- Rotational program with key roles in Manufacturing, Project Engineering, and Process Development, leading to consistent improvements in efficiency and product quality
Education
Master of Business Administration (Cum Laude) - undefined
University of Stellenbosch Business School
01.2016
Bachelor of Engineering - Mechanical
University of Johannesburg
01.2011
Skills
- Cross-functional Leadership in Matrixed Organizations
- Global Supply Chain/Operations Expertise
- Strategic Planning & Operational Execution
- Innovation and Project Management
- Talent Development & High-Performing Team Leadership
- Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Advocacy
- Technical Expertise & Analytical Problem-Solving
- Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) for Factories
- Certified Executive Coach
Certification
- Government Certificate of Competency (GCC) for Factories
- Certified Executive Coach
Languages
English
isiZulu
Sesotho
References
Available upon request
Accomplishments
- Named one of the200 Young South Africans by Mail & Guardian
- Winner, Supply & Demand Chain Executive Women in Supply Chain Award
Timeline
Global Operations Leader for Listerine
Kenvue
04.2024
Operations Segment Lead, Essential Health
Kenvue
01.2023 - Current
Director, Global Program Management
Kenvue
01.2021 - 01.2023
Sourcing Unit Director (Make)
Unilever Beauty and Personal Care
01.2021 - 01.2021
Plant Manager
Unilever Home and Personal Care
01.2017 - 01.2020
Quality Manager
Unilever Home and Personal Care
01.2015 - 01.2017
Unilever Future Leaders Program
Unilever South Africa & UK
01.2012 - 01.2015
Master of Business Administration (Cum Laude) - undefined
University of Stellenbosch Business School
Bachelor of Engineering - Mechanical
University of Johannesburg
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