Diageo India has roped in Praveen Someshwar as its new managing director and CEO, effective immediately. He will step into the shoes of Hina Nagarajan who held the role for the past four years.
Prior to this, Someshwar was associated with HT Media as its CEO & MD. During his tenure at HT Media, he successfully transformed the traditional media powerhouse into a digital-first, tech-driven organisation. He led teams with the ability to co-create strategy and proven ability to execute to win in the marketplace. He joined the company in 2018.
His 24-year career at PepsiCo further showcases his expertise in various general management, finance, and strategy roles across India and the Asia Pacific region. He joined the company in 1994 as its financial manager.
Holding onto many leadership and key roles, Someshwar was appointed as the CEO, India Foods, at PepsiCo. In this role, he was responsible for iconic food brands, including Lays, Kurkure, Quaker while introducing and launching Indian snacks.
In 2014, Someshwar was appointed as the senior vice president & GM, based out of Hong Kong. In this role, he was responsible for all PepsiCo businesses across the North & South East Asia.
In his early career days, Someshwar has also worked with ICI Paints and KPMG.
Someshwar is a chartered accountant and holds a bachelor’s degree in BCom Hons from Delhi University. His expertise lies in portfolio management, brand management, business transformation, coaching, general management, customer management and organisational development among the others.
