The Indian corporate landscape is witnessing significant leadership transitions in early 2025, with three major companies announcing strategic C-suite appointments that are set to shape their future trajectories.
Praveen Someshwar appointed as CEO of United Spirits Limited
United Spirits Limited (Diageo India) has appointed Praveen Someshwar as its CEO-designate, marking a new chapter for the spirits major.
Someshwar, who will join on March 1, 2025, brings with him rich experience from his five-year tenure as MD and CEO of HT Media, where he led multiple digital, print, and radio outlets including Hindustan Times and Mint.
Prior to his media role, Someshwar spent 24 years with PepsiCo, holding senior leadership positions across India and the Asia-Pacific region. He will formally assume the role of Managing Director and CEO on April 1, 2025, succeeding Hina Nagarajan, who leaves behind a legacy of strong strategic progress and sustained double-digit growth, with the company’s market capitalization exceeding Rs 1 trillion under her leadership.
Anshul Asawa appointed as CEO-designate of Avenue Supermarts
In a significant development for India’s retail sector, Avenue Supermarts has announced Anshul Asawa as the CEO-designate of its DMart chain of stores. Asawa, who will join on March 15, comes with an impressive three-decade career at Unilever, where he currently serves as Country Head of Unilever Thailand and general manager for the home care business unit in Greater Asia. An alumnus of IIT Roorkee and IIM Lucknow,
Asawa has demonstrated expertise in sales, marketing, and distribution across multiple geographies. He is set to succeed Ignatius Navil Noronha, who will complete his current term in January 2026 after more than 20 years of leadership that transformed DMart into one of India’s leading retail chains.
Ankit Goyle moves to Snap Inc., appointed as Head of India Marketing
Social media giant Snap Inc. has strengthened its India leadership with the appointment of Ankit Goyle as Head of India Marketing.
Goyle joins after an impressive nine-year stint at Apple India, where he played a crucial role in launching 11 iPhone models and led category marketing for iPhone and AirPods. His diverse marketing experience includes roles at prominent companies like Google, Reid & Taylor, and Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail. At Snap, Goyle will be responsible for establishing the marketing function and contributing to Snapchat’s mission of empowering self-expression and connection in the Indian market.
These appointments reflect a broader trend of companies bringing in seasoned leaders with diverse experience to drive their next phase of growth in the evolving Indian market. Each of these executives brings unique expertise from different sectors, potentially enabling their new organizations to benefit from cross-industry insights and innovative approaches.
