What is Virginie Helias’ Legacy as CSO at Procter & Gamble?

Virginie Helias, Chief Sustainability Officer at Procter & Gamble, is stepping away from the company.

She has been at P&G for 38 years, first joining in 1988.

Procter & Gamble is a global consumer product company, home to popular brands such as Fairy, Oral-B, Pampers and Head & Shoulders.

It is a leader in many health & beauty sectors, including baby care, feminine care, laundry and home care.

Virginie is leaving behind a legacy of sustainability leadership and environmental action.

Virginie’s legacy at P&G

During her time at P&G, Virginie has seen many changes within the company.

In 1989, after Virginie joined the company, it started using recycled plastic in its packaging.

In 2003, it introduced environmentally responsible flushable wipes, leading the development of guidelines for flushable products.

It developed coldwater technology to reduce the energy intensity of the laundry process.

P&G announced in 2013 that 45 of its sites had achieved zero manufacturing waste to landfill status.

This led the company to set bigger environmental goals for 2030.

During Earth Week in 2018, it released new sustainability goals for 2030, aiming to make a positive impact on the environment while creating value for its customers.

Throughout her tenure, Virginie has led the implementation of P&G’s sustainability strategy and has orchestrated multiple ESG achievements for the company.

She was awarded sixth place in Sustainability Magazine’s Top 250 Sustainability Leaders 2026 for her commitment to 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.”

Virginie’s career history

Virginie joined P&G in 1988 after gaining her degree in marketing.

Between 1988 and 2011, she held many roles in marketing at the company, working in fabric care, hair care, laundry, feminine care and its Ariel brand.

She worked her way up through the ranks at P&G, becoming Vice President, Global Sustainability in 2016.

She has built up her experience working internationally for the company, having worked 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.”

P&G’s new sustainability leader

Virginie is passing on the role to Michele Baeten, who will become Vice President of Global Sustainability in July 2026.

Michele joined P&G in 2006, working as a Brand Director across multiple areas of the business until 2020.

In 2020, she became Vice President for Global FemCare and Corporate Sustainability.

Most recently, she has held the role of Vice President for Integrated Sustainable Growth.

She will be leading P&G’s global sustainability strategy, taking over from Virginie and building upon the foundations she has laid.

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.”