Coromandel International appoints S Sankarasubramanian as MD and CEO

Coromandel International Limited has appointed S Sankarasubramanian, Executive Director of the Nutrient Business, as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, effective from 7th August 2024. This decision was made by the Board of Directors, highlighting Sankarasubramanian’s extensive experience and successful track record as both a Chief Financial Officer and a Business Head.

Key appointment details

Sankarasubramanian, a mathematics graduate from the University of Madras, is a member of the Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of India. He completed the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School in 2009. His journey with the Murugappa Group began in 1993 at E.I.D Parry (India) Limited in Corporate Finance. He joined Coromandel International Limited in 2003 and has since significantly contributed to its growth, particularly in the Nutrient segment.

Proven track record in business growth

Under his leadership as Business Head of the Nutrient segment, Coromandel International has not only consolidated its position in the industry but also achieved profitable growth and diversification into new product portfolios, including nanotechnology and drone spraying services. The company has also ventured into mining operations. Sankarasubramanian serves on the boards of several organizations, including the Fertiliser Association of India, Tunisian Indian Fertiliser S.A., and Foskor (Pty) Ltd. in South Africa.

Comprehensive agri solutions

Coromandel International Limited is a pioneer and leading provider of agri solutions in India, offering a wide range of products and services across the farming value chain. The company operates in two major segments: Nutrient and Crop Protection. It is the second-largest manufacturer and marketer of phosphatic fertilizer in India. The company’s crop protection products are marketed both domestically and internationally, offering a variety of technical and formulation products.

Specialty and organic products

The Specialty Nutrients business focuses on water-soluble fertilizers, secondary and micronutrients, and nano fertilizer products. Coromandel is also a leading marketer of organic fertilizer in India. The Bio Products business centers on plant extractions for various applications. Additionally, the company operates around 750 rural retail outlets across Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu, providing agri inputs and farming services to approximately three million farmers.

Robust R&D and manufacturing

Coromandel has seven R&D centers and a strong regulatory setup that supports process development and the introduction of new products. The company operates 18 manufacturing facilities across India, producing a wide range of nutrient and crop protection products, which are marketed through an extensive network of dealers and its retail centers.

Environmental recognition

The company recorded a turnover of Rs.22,290 Crores during FY23-24. Coromandel’s efforts towards environmental sustainability have been recognized by international organizations such as the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). It has also been voted one of the ten greenest companies in India by The Energy and Resources Institute (TERI). Coromandel is part of the INR 742 billion Murugappa Group.

Sankarasubramanian’s appointment is a strategic move that reflects Coromandel’s commitment to innovation and growth. His background in finance and business management positions him well to lead the company into a new era of profitability and diversification. Under his leadership, the company is expected to further strengthen its market presence and continue its legacy of sustainability and innovation.