Mahesh Kanchan has been appointed Managing Director, India and Southeast Asia, Bacardi, effective 1 October. He succeeds Vinay Golikeri, who has been promoted to Regional President for Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) and Global Travel Retail (GTR), following over three years leading the India and Southeast Asia region and more than twenty years with Bacardi.
“It’s been a privilege to lead the India business and I’m proud of the momentum we’ve built and the strength of the team,” says Vinay Golikeri. “India remains a critical market for Bacardi, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with Mahesh to build on this progress as part of my wider AMEA role.”
Kanchan, currently Managing Director, Southeast Asia, brings more than 30 years of experience, across both alcoholic beverages and FMCG industries. Mahesh will now lead the next phase of growth for Bacardi in India, a market that continues to play a critical role in the family-owned company’s long-term strategy.
“I’m excited to take on this role at a time of significant opportunity for Bacardi in India,” says Mahesh Kanchan. “We have a strong team, clear momentum and a business well positioned for its next phase of growth.”
India is a key market for Bacardi, underpinned by a long history in the country, continued investment and strong growth momentum. It is also a proven source of talent for Bacardi globally, having produced a number of senior leaders across the organization, including the Bacardi Limited CEO, Mahesh Madhavan, and remains an important pipeline of future leadership for the business.