PepsiCo has named Jagrut Kotecha as its new CEO for India operations, succeeding Ahmed El Sheikh effective March 2024.Jagrut Kotecha to become PepsiCos new India CEOKotecha, currently Chief Commercial Officer for PepsiCo in the Africa, Middle East, and South Asia (AMESA) region, will take charge of spearheading PepsiCos strategic growth in the key Indian market.The leadership transition is part of PepsiCos realignment, with El Sheikh becoming CEO of the Middle East business unit after leading India since 2018.Who is Jagrut KotechaJagrut Kotechas appointment as PepsiCo India CEO caps over 30 years of growing leadership roles since joining the company in 1994. He started in sales and marketing in India before becoming Regional Sales Manager in 1997.Kotecha served as Marketing Head for PepsiCos Western Snacks until 1999. His international postings included regional sales in Thailand and as Commercial Director in the Philippines between 2000-2010.Since 2011, Kotecha has held key positions like General Manager and Country Head in Thailand, VP for Snacks in India, and Global VP for Affordable Platforms. Most recently, he has been Chief Commercial Officer for the AMESA region since 2020.Before PepsiCo, Kotecha worked at Cadbury India from 1992-1994. He holds a Chemical Engineering degree and an MBA in Marketing from Mumbai University.With extensive experience across Asian and developing markets, Kotecha seems well-poised to lead PepsiCos India operations.Heres what Jagrut Kotecha said on his appointment:Commenting on his appointment as India CEO, Kotecha said, Having been part of the PepsiCo family for the past 30 years, I have witnessed firsthand the unwavering commitment of PepsiCo India to excellence and innovation.This commitment has not only propelled our growth in the Indian market but also reinforced our position as a leader in the industry. Ahmed leaves an indelible mark on our India operations and his legacy of success sets a high benchmark for us all. As I take on this new responsibility, I am excited to drive forward our mission, ensuring continued success and growth in the Indian market, he added. Meanwhile, El Sheikh was credited for transforming PepsiCos India business and steering it through challenging times during his tenure.PepsiCo AMESA CEO Eugene Willemsens stancePepsiCo AMESA CEO Eugene Willemsen said India remains a pivotal market playing a crucial role in PepsiCos global aspirations. He expressed confidence Kotecha will take India operations to new heights.With its growing middle class and vast youth population, India represents a strategic market for PepsiCos food and beverage portfolio.Under Kotechas leadership, PepsiCo will likely continue accelerating localization, boosting manufacturing and distribution, and catering innovations to Indian consumer preferences.What does Jagrut Kotechas appointment as new CEO underscoreThe appointment underscores PepsiCos focus on identifying regional leaders to drive growth across key markets. With extensive experience in similar developing economies, Kotecha seems primed to tap Indias potential during a dynamic phase.
