In a strategic leadership move, Quest Retail, India’s leading beauty-focused specialty retailer, has elevated Shriti Malhotra to Executive Chairperson and appointed Rahul Shanker as Group CEO. The leadership transition comes at a pivotal time as the company aims to accelerate growth, enhance its omnichannel strategy, and strengthen its market presence.
Rahul will oversee the operations of Quest Retail’s portfolio of brands, which includes The Body Shop, Kiehl’s, Avon, Kylie Cosmetics, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Max Factor, Boddess, and The Honest Tree, among others.
This move also sees Shriti Malhotra stepping into the role of Executive Chairperson after a transformative tenure as Group CEO. Under her leadership, Quest Retail established itself as a key player in India’s beauty industry, expanding its brand portfolio and introducing innovative retail concepts. As Executive Chairperson, she will guide the company’s long-term strategic direction, working closely with the Board of Directors to shape its future growth.
With nearly three decades of experience in India’s retail sector, Shriti has significantly influenced brands such as Benetton, Nike, and Puma. She played a pivotal role in launching The Body Shop in India 19 years ago, where her leadership drove the brand’s rapid expansion, operational excellence, and innovative customer engagement.
Commenting on the leadership transition, Shriti Malhotra said, "A company’s true strength lies in the passion of its people, and it has been my privilege to lead Quest Retail to where it stands today. Rahul’s depth of experience in consumer businesses and his transformational leadership make him the ideal person to drive the company’s next chapter. His appointment is crucial for enhancing our omnichannel capabilities and continuing to solidify our position in the market."
Rahul Shanker, a seasoned leader with nearly 27 years of experience, has worked with globally recognised organisations, including FMCG giants such as PepsiCo, Wrigley-Mars, Philips, Avon, and Modicare. His expertise spans consumer categories, from FMCG to personal care, health, and wellness. He is well-equipped to lead Quest Retail into its next phase of expansion. Rahul’s leadership will focus on accelerating growth, improving operational efficiency, and driving innovation in customer experience.
After his appointment, Rahul Shanker commented, "I am thrilled to join Quest Retail at such an exciting time. The company has established a robust portfolio and a powerful omnichannel ecosystem that positions it uniquely for growth. My focus will be on scaling our operations, innovating the customer journey, and identifying new opportunities to further accelerate our success. I look forward to collaborating with our exceptional team and stakeholders to take Quest Retail to new heights."
