Diageo India has announced the appointment of Praveen Someshwar as CEO-Designate, succeeding Hina Nagarajan, the current managing director and CEO. Nagarajan, who has led the company for four years as part of Diageo’s Global Executive Committee, will transition to a new role within the organisation.Someshwar will join Diageo India on March 1 as CEO-designate and officially assume the role of MD and CEO on April 1. He will also join the Diageo Global Executive Committee, the company said in a statement.
Hina Nagarajan, who has been at the helm of Diageo India since July 2021, reflected on her tenure, saying, “It has been a true privilege to lead Diageo India during a period of strong strategic progress and sustained, profitable double-digit growth. Our market capitalisation has grown to over `1 trillion ($12.5 billion). I will continue to support the team as they build on this success under Praveen’s leadership.
”Debra Crew, chief executive of Diageo, said: “Under Hina’s leadership, Diageo India has achieved strong top-line growth and margin expansion, while driving impactful strategic initiatives. She has reshaped and premiumised our portfolio, positioning Diageo India as an innovative leader in the AlcoBev industry. As she transitions to her new role, she leaves behind a remarkable legacy and a highly engaged, talented, and diverse team.”
Praveen Someshwar brings extensive experience across various industries. Over the past five years, he has served as managing director and CEO of HT Media, overseeing its portfolio of digital, print, and radio outlets. Before this, Someshwar spent 24 years with PepsiCo, holding leadership positions in general management, finance, and strategy across India and the Asia-Pacific region.