The Bata Shoe Organization, one of the world’s leading manufacturers and retailers of quality footwear, has appointed Sandeep Kataria as CEO, effective immediately. Kataria is the first Indian to be elevated to this prestigious global role of the footwear major. He takes over from Alexis Nasard, who is stepping down after almost five years in the role.
Kataria has extensive leadership experience in working across geographies, backed by an intuitive understanding of consumers and a determined but inclusive leadership style. With 24 years of experience at Unilever, Yum Brands and Vodafone in India and Europe before joining Bata India as CEO in 2017, he has been directly involved in leading businesses and powerhouse brands that command impressive consumer following and extensive global reach.
“A passion for developing talent blends perfectly with Kataria’s sound understanding of markets and strategic finesse, making him a leader of exceptional merit,” the company said after its board of directors approved the appointment.
As the CEO of Bata India Ltd, Kataria has helped drive the company’s consistent growth and profitability. Under his leadership, Bata India doubled its profits driven by double digit topline growth, and sponsored some of the most ingenious campaigns, including ‘Surprisingly Bata’, that revamped Bata’s image as a more vibrant and contemporary brand, targeted at younger consumers.
Congratulating Kataria on his promotion, Ashwani Windlass, chairman – Bata India Ltd, said: “Over the past few years, the India team has delivered exceptional growth in footwear volumes, revenues and profits, and has strengthened Bata’s customer measures in a highly competitive footwear market. The Bata Group and Bata India both stand to benefit greatly from Sandeep’s extensive experience.”
Accepting the new appointment and excited about the journey ahead, Kataria, now CEO-Bata Brands, said, “Bata is a brand with an enviable reputation for high quality, affordable footwear. I have been privileged to be part of Bata’s success in India and I look forward to building further on our proud, 120-year history as shoemakers to the world. While 2020 has presented unique challenges, the appeal of our brands and the passion of our people provide every reason for confidence regarding our prospects in the years ahead.
