Bata India has appointed Sanjay Rao as its Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer. Rao succeeds Gunjan Shah, who has completed five years at the helm of the company.
With more than two decades of experience across retail and consumer businesses, Rao has held leadership roles spanning India, South Asia, China and Europe. Prior to joining Bata India, he served as Senior Director, Nike Retail, overseeing the France and Benelux markets at Nike.
Panos Mytaros, Chief Executive Officer of Bata Group, said: “India is one of Bata Group’s most important markets and one of our biggest long-term growth opportunities. Bata India has a powerful brand, deep consumer trust, strong foundations and significant room to grow. The next chapter must be about becoming even closer to consumers, strengthening our relevance, responding faster to trends and giving consumers the shoes they want for every part of their lives. I would like to thank Gunjan for his leadership and contribution over the past five years. He has helped strengthen the business and build a solid foundation for the future. Sanjay brings deep retail and consumer experience, international perspective and a strong understanding of the Indian market. He knows how to build businesses, develop teams and create momentum. I am excited to welcome him to Bata and confident he is the right leader to take Bata India forward into its next phase of accelerated growth.”
Ashwani Windlass, Chairman of Bata India, said: “On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Gunjan for his leadership, commitment and contribution to Bata India. During his tenure, he strengthened the business, elevated the consumer experience, drove innovation and built a strong leadership team. His contribution has helped create a solid foundation for the future, and we wish him every success in the next chapter of his career. We are delighted to welcome Sanjay to Bata India. His versatile background, proven track record and deep understanding of consumer and retail markets make him well suited to lead the company into its next phase of growth, with a strong focus on consumer relevance, product strength and long-term value creation.”
His appointment comes as Bata India looks to build on its growth trajectory and strengthen its position in the footwear and lifestyle market. Rao’s international experience across diverse consumer markets is expected to support the company’s next phase of business expansion and transformation.
