Leverhulme, << LEE vuhr `hyoom` >> Viscount (1851-1925), founded Lever Brothers Company, one of the world’s largest soap manufacturers (now a subsidiary of Unilever). He helped develop mass-production methods. Leverhulme also developed plans for short hours, good wages, and profit-sharing by employees. Port Sunlight, his model factory town, encouraged town planning. Leverhulme was born William Hesketh Lever in Bolton, England. From 1906 to 1909, he served as a member of the British Parliament. Leverhulme received his title in 1922.