Who Will Take Over From Virginie Helias at Procter & Gamble?

​​​​​​​Procter & Gamble's Chief Sustainability Officer Virginie Helias is departing after 38 years with the company. She joined in 1988 and will step down from her role effective 30 June.

Procter & Gamble manufactures consumer health and hygiene products distributed globally. The company's portfolio includes brands such as Oral-B, Pampers and Head & Shoulders.

According to the company, it holds leadership positions in baby care, feminine care and personal hygiene sectors.

Sustainability in health products

Virginie has overseen environmental initiatives across P&G's health and hygiene product lines during her tenure. In 2003, the company introduced flushable wipes designed to meet environmental standards and led the development of industry guidelines for flushable products.

The company reported in 2013 that 45 of its manufacturing sites had achieved zero waste to landfill status. This milestone preceded broader environmental targets set for 2030.

In 2018, P&G released new sustainability goals during Earth Week. These objectives aimed to reduce environmental impact while maintaining product value for consumers.

Virginie has led the implementation of P&G's sustainability strategy throughout her time in the role. She was awarded sixth place in Sustainability Magazine's Top 250 Sustainability Leaders 2026 for her work in environmental impact, health and hygiene.

Virginie writes on LinkedIn: “The time has come. This is my final bow at P&G. After 38 years with the company, I am stepping away from my role as Chief Sustainability Officer, effective June 30.

“Some of my friends have chosen to retire in search of freedom, fulfilment and fun. Those aren’t my reasons.

“I’ve already experienced all three throughout this journey, especially during my last 15 years leading Sustainability for the company. The horizon just got a little wider.”

Healthcare product leadership experience

Virginie joined P&G in 1988 after completing her degree in marketing. Between 1988 and 2011, she held marketing roles across fabric care, hair care, laundry and feminine care divisions.

She progressed through the organisation and became Vice President, Global Sustainability in 2016. Her experience includes international assignments in France, the UK, Switzerland and the US.

Virginie says: “I’m overflowing with gratitude for everything P&G has given me: unparalleled growth opportunities, the freedom to make a meaningful impact, collaboration with extraordinary individuals and the chance to make lifelong friends.

“As for what comes next, first and foremost, some dedicated time with my family. And then, we shall see.

“Wherever I can use my expertise in environmental and human sustainability to create real impact.”

Transition to new leadership

Michele Baeten will assume the role of Vice President of Global Sustainability in July 2026. Michele joined P&G in 2006 and worked as a Brand Director across multiple business areas until 2020.

In 2020, she became Vice President for Global FemCare and Corporate Sustainability. Her most recent position was Vice President for Integrated Sustainable Growth.

Michele will lead P&G's global sustainability strategy for the company's health and hygiene product portfolio. She will build on the framework established during Virginie's tenure.

Michele's background in feminine care and corporate sustainability positions her to continue P&G's environmental initiatives across its healthcare product divisions.

Virginie said on LinkedIn: “I am passing the baton to Michele Baeten with full confidence that she will take this work to the next level. 

“I’ve worked closely with Michele for the past six years and have seen firsthand her ability to turn complex sustainability challenges into strong business strategy, build powerful collaboration and lead with clarity.”