EduConnect

Goa Institute of Management Mourns the Passing of Former HUL Chairman and GIM’s First Chairman of the Board, Susim Mukul Datta


Goa, July 7, 2025: The Goa Institute of Management (GIM) expresses its deepest condolences at the passing of Mr. Susim Mukul Datta, a titan of India’s corporate world and the founding Chairman of the Board of Governors at GIM, who passed away at the age of 89 in Mumbai on Saturday morning.

Mr. Datta served as Chairman of GIM’s Board from 1993 to 2006 and was instrumental in setting the academic and ethical vision that would shape the institution into one of India’s premier management schools. His leadership extended beyond administration—he was a mentor, a strategist, and a friend to many in the GIM family.

Known best in the corporate world as the former Chairman of Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (then Hindustan Lever Ltd), Mr. Datta led the company through a period of significant transformation, including the iconic merger of Lipton Tea and Brooke Bond. His pioneering work in rural marketing helped shape India’s FMCG roadmap.

Over his distinguished career, Mr. Datta served on the boards of more than 21 leading Indian organizations, including Philips India, Tata Trustee Company, Castrol, IL&FS Investment Managers, Peerless, and Linde India. But GIM always held a special place in his heart.

Dr. Ajit Parulekar, Director of GIM, remarked:

“Mr. Datta played a very significant role in shaping the early years of the Goa Institute of Management. His guidance during GIM’s formative decade laid the foundation for what the institution has become today. Even after his formal retirement from our Board of Governors, he remained closely associated with GIM and visited our campus on several occasions. We will always be grateful for his wisdom, mentorship, and unwavering support through critical periods of our development.”

The GIM community extends its heartfelt sympathies to Mr. Datta’s family and loved ones. His vision, integrity, and commitment to excellence will continue to guide GIM for generations to come.


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