Adani Wilmar appoints Shrikant Kanhere deputy CEO, boosting leadership team

Adani Wilmar Limited, one of India’s leading food and FMCG companies, announced the appointment of Shrikant Kanhere as the deputy chief executive officer, a role he will assume alongside his ongoing responsibilities as the company’s chief financial officer. This move, effective immediately, highlights Adani Wilmar’s strategic effort to fortify its leadership team and align with its growth trajectory.

Mr. Kanhere, a key figure in Adani Wilmar since 2013, brings over 25 years of extensive experience across consulting, manufacturing, services, and the FMCG sector. Before joining Adani Wilmar, he served with prominent organisations such as Reliance Industries Limited and Vodafone Digilink Limited, showcasing his versatile professional capabilities.

The company’s leadership structure will see Mr. Kanhere collaborating closely with Saumin Sheth, the chief operating officer, under the direction of managing director and CEO, Angshu Mallick. While Mr. Kanhere will steer business development, investor relations, and financial management, Mr. Sheth will continue managing critical operations such as raw material sourcing, trading, and manufacturing.

According to Adani Wilmar’s board of directors, the appointment is a pivotal step towards reinforcing its leadership framework, preparing the company for its next phase of growth in the competitive FMCG landscape.

Strengthening the management for the future

Adani Wilmar Limited is widely recognised for its comprehensive range of kitchen essentials and industry-focused products. Its flagship brand, Fortune, leads in the edible oil segment while catering to a wide array of packaged food categories such as wheat flour, rice, pulses, and ready-to-cook options. Beyond the kitchen, the company’s diverse portfolio extends into the industrial and personal care segments with products like oleochemicals and hygiene solutions.

This strategic leadership enhancement aligns with the company’s ambitious goals in product innovation, market expansion, and sustainable operations. By entrusting key executives with expanded roles, Adani Wilmar demonstrates confidence in its ability to navigate industry challenges and tap into new growth opportunities.

Industry perspectives

Industry analysts view this development as a significant signal of Adani Wilmar’s commitment to robust governance and a streamlined operational focus. Experts have highlighted the growing complexity in the FMCG sector, with rising consumer expectations and an evolving competitive landscape. Against this backdrop, leadership agility is considered critical to maintaining market relevance and driving innovation.

Adani Wilmar’s decision to appoint Shrikant Kanhere as deputy CEO underlines the company’s progressive approach to leadership. With a proven track record and diverse expertise, Mr. Kanhere’s expanded responsibilities are expected to bolster Adani Wilmar’s strategic initiatives. This development positions the company to continue leading the way in India’s FMCG sector while setting a foundation for sustainable growth in the years ahead.