Roshni Das moves from Intel to lead KUKA’s India operations 

Roshni Das is moving from the world of chips and technology marketing to robots, automation, and industrial AI, taking charge as Managing Director of KUKA Group’s India operations from October 1, 2026. 

Das, a former Intel marketing leader, will oversee KUKA India and KUKA Systems India, bringing nearly two decades of experience in technology, marketing, sales, and partner ecosystems to the German automation major. She joined Intel in 2005 and went on to hold senior roles across India, Asia-Pacific, and global marketing, including APJ CMO and General Manager for Partner Enablement, before becoming Vice President, Global Marketing Innovation. She left Intel in November 2024. 

The move represents a significant shift in sector, but there is a clear technology thread running through it. Das has described her attraction to KUKA in terms of wanting a technology role that would stretch her, bring her closer to decision-making, and put her at the intersection of some of the biggest changes taking place in industry. 

One of those changes is the growing convergence of artificial intelligence and physical machines. Das has pointed to the emergence of “Physical AI”, where intelligence moves beyond software and into machines, sensors, and robotics. KUKA describes this broader evolution as “Automation 2.0”. 

The timing is particularly relevant for India. The country is expanding its manufacturing ambitions while investing in automation, electronics, semiconductors, and industrial capabilities. At SEMICON India 2026, the government also highlighted the expanding opportunities for equipment, materials, manufacturing, design, and related capabilities as India moves towards a broader semiconductor ecosystem. 

KUKA itself operates across industrial automation, robotics, intralogistics, warehouse automation, software, and AI. The group says it has around 14,500 employees, sales of approximately €4 billion, and operations in more than 50 countries. Its portfolio spans industries ranging from automotive and electronics to manufacturing, FMCG, healthcare, aerospace, and retail. 

Das will also be returning to a familiar professional orbit. KUKA Group CEO Christoph Schell was previously Intel’s Chief Commercial Officer and a member of its executive leadership team before moving to KUKA. He became KUKA CEO in 2025. 

For Das, the new role therefore brings together two increasingly connected worlds: the digital intelligence developed by technology companies and the physical automation that allows factories and businesses to deploy it. Her challenge now will be to translate that experience into growth in a market where India’s manufacturing ambitions are becoming increasingly intertwined with robotics, software, AI, and automation.