Avon announces new APAC head

In this role, effective February 3, Patel will look to strengthen Avon’s business in the region as the company continues its rebuild.

Overseeing the Asia-Pacific business, Patel will also report to Avon CEO Sheri McCoy and will join the company's Executive Committee. 

"As part of our commitment to growing the Avon business, I am pleased to announce that Nilesh Patel is joining us to lead our efforts in the Asia Pacific region,"​ says McCoy.

“Nilesh's experience, expertise and insights are critical assets as we work to strengthen our position in the Asia Pacific region and globally."​

Strong career​

Patel joins Avon following a 26-year career with the Heinz Company, where he served in various roles.

Throughout his tenure, he acquired deep experience across multiple functions from supply chain management to marketing, and built a solid record of success, most notably in emerging Asian markets such as Indonesia and India.

"During his successful career, Nilesh has a strong track record of strategic and operational excellence, which will be critical as we work to rebuild our Asia Pacific business. He knows how to build a brand and bring together a strong team to drive results,”​ adds McCoy.

Most recently, Patel served as president, director and regional CEO of the Heinz ASEAN Region, where he oversaw business in Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the Philippines, Vietnam and Thailand.

The position was an expansion of his role as head of Heinz ABC Business in Indonesia, where he has been credited with turning around the business and more than doubling revenues over a five-year period.

From 2004 to 2007, Patel served as managing director and chairman of the Board of Directors for Heinz India, where he spearheaded a brand repositioning, organizational restructuring, and other changes resulting in a near doubling of revenues.

Other roles at Heinz include Senior Manager/Director of Supply Chain and Foodservice Sales in China and Manager/Senior Manager in various roles for the Middle-East/Africa and Europe regions.