Radico Khaitan Ltd, one of India’s leading alcoholic beverage companies, has announced significant leadership changes, elevating Sudhir Upadhyay as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Kunal Madan as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) as part of a broader strategic progression.
The appointments come as the company looks to sharpen its focus on premiumisation, global brand building and future readiness in a competitive market.
Internal leaders with deep experience
Upadhyay, who brings more than 25 years of industry experience including over a decade at Radico Khaitan, previously served as National Sales Head and will now lead the company’s sales strategy and distribution execution across markets.
Madan, with over 20 years in global sales and marketing and more than 12 years with Radico Khaitan, will oversee the company’s overall marketing strategy, brand architecture and premiumisation agenda as CMO.
Leadership ethos anchored in internal talent
Under the stewardship of Managing Director Abhishek Khaitan, the core leadership team now includes Dilip Banthiya, Chief Financial Officer; Sanjeev Banga, President – International Business; Sudhir Upadhyay, CSO; Kunal Madan, CMO; and Saket Somani, Head – Finance & Strategy.
Commenting on the realignment, Abhishek Khaitan said, “At Radico Khaitan, our growth has always been powered by people. We deeply believe that true leadership is not imported, it is cultivated. Over the years, we have consciously chosen to elevate talent from within the organisation, because when individuals are given responsibility, trust, and the opportunity to grow, leadership is shaped organically… Empowering our next generation of leaders is not just a strategic priority, it reflects our faith in our people and our conviction that those who grow with the organisation are best placed to carry its values forward.”
COO role transition and acknowledgements
The leadership reshuffle also marks the departure of Amar Sinha from his role as Chief Operating Officer. Abhishek Khaitan expressed appreciation for Sinha’s contributions, saying the company thanks him for his efforts and wishes him well in future endeavours.
Sinha, in turn, said it has been a privilege to be part of Radico Khaitan’s growth journey and transformation, expressing gratitude for the trust and opportunities during his tenure.
Strategic implications
Industry watchers view these leadership changes as part of Radico Khaitan’s broader strategy to nurture internal talent while positioning itself for the next phase of growth, centred on premium segments and stronger brand differentiation both domestically and internationally.
As the alco-beverage sector continues to evolve, the company’s focus on internal leadership progression and deepening market execution reflects its intent to blend experience with future-oriented strategy.
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