Cowan, currently senior vice president for Unilever Philippines, will succeed Marijn van Tiggelen who, after three years, will be moving to China to take up the role of executive vice president Unilever North Asia.
Alan Jope, Unilever President Russia, Africa & Middle East, said, "I am extremely pleased to be able to make this change that will give Peter the opportunity to build on the great work done by his predecessor.
"Peter will bring a wealth of experience to bear on the critical role of driving growth in Unilever's biggest African business."
