polman

Polman refers to a surname of Dutch origin, commonly associated with individuals from the Netherlands. The name derives from the Old Dutch word "pol," meaning "field" or "meadow," combined with the suffix "-man," indicating a person from or associated with such a place. Over time, the spelling has evolved into various forms, including Polman, Polmann, and Polmanns.

One of the most notable figures bearing the surname is **Mark Polman**, a Dutch businessman and former CEO of Unilever, a multinational consumer goods company. Born in 1966, Polman played a pivotal role in shaping Unilever’s sustainability agenda, particularly through the company’s "Sustainable Living Plan," which aimed to decouple growth from environmental impact. His leadership emphasized ethical business practices, social responsibility, and long-term value creation. Polman stepped down as CEO in 2021 after nearly a decade in the role, though he remained involved in corporate governance.

The name also appears in historical and genealogical records across the Netherlands, particularly in regions like North Holland and South Holland. Like many Dutch surnames, Polman reflects the country’s agrarian heritage, as many early bearers of the name were likely farmers or landowners. Variations of the surname may also exist due to regional dialects and spelling conventions of the past.

While Polman is primarily recognized through its association with Mark Polman, the surname itself has no broader cultural or linguistic significance beyond its Dutch roots. It remains a common family name in the Netherlands and among Dutch diaspora communities worldwide.