United Spirits (Diageo India), a leader in the AlcoBev industry, has announced the appointment of Praveen Someshwar as its CEO-Designate. This leadership change marks a significant milestone for Diageo India as Hina Nagarajan, the current MD and CEO, transitions into a global role within Diageo’s Executive Committee.
Leadership Transition: Hina Nagarajan’s Stellar Tenure
Hina Nagarajan has led Diageo India for four transformative years, achieving robust top-line growth, margin expansion, and portfolio premiumization. Under her stewardship, the company grew to a market capitalization of over INR 1 trillion (~US$ 12.5 billion). Her impactful leadership has left an indelible mark on the company and the Indian AlcoBev industry.
As she steps into her new global role, Hina expressed gratitude, saying, “It has been a true privilege to lead Diageo India during a period of strong strategic progress and sustained, profitable double-digit growth.”
Praveen Someshwar’s Appointment: A Strategic Move
Praveen Someshwar will join Diageo India as CEO-Designate on March 1, 2025, taking over as Managing Director and CEO from April 1, 2025, following regulatory approvals.
He brings with him a wealth of experience, having served as MD and CEO of HT Media for the last five years. During his tenure, he led prominent digital, print, and radio outlets, including Hindustan Times and Mint. Before HT Media, Praveen spent 24 years at PepsiCo in various leadership roles spanning General Management, Finance, and Strategy in India and the Asia Pacific region.
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Diageo Leadership’s Vision for the Future
Diageo chief executive Debra Crew said: “Under Hina’s leadership, Diageo India has combined strong top-line growth and margin expansion with impactful strategic initiatives, reshaping and premiumising our portfolio and positioning Diageo India as an innovative leader in the AlcoBev industry. As she moves on to a new role within Diageo, she leaves a significant track record of success and a highly engaged, talented and diverse team. Praveen joins us with an outstanding track record of leading consumer businesses, with a passion for both strategy and executional excellence that will serve us well as we plan for the next phase of Diageo India’s exciting growth story. I can’t wait to welcome him on board.”
Mahendra Kumar Sharma, chairman of the USL board, said: “On behalf of the USL Board, we wish to extend our sincere thanks to Hina for her strong stewardship of the business and her partnership with the Board. Together with the team in India, she has led a bold ambition for growth that has driven market share gains across multiple categories, and she leaves the business with a clear strategy and growth momentum. The Board and I also wish to welcome Praveen, who we look forward to working with and offering our full support as he transitions into this important leadership position.”
Praveen Someshwar’s Vision
Excited about his new role, Praveen Someshwar said: “I am delighted to be joining Diageo – a business with world-leading brands, talented colleagues, and a long-term commitment to developing its business sustainably in India. I look forward to working with my new colleagues to build on their great work.”
Conclusion
With Praveen Someshwar at the helm, Diageo India is poised to continue its trajectory of innovation and growth. The leadership transition underscores Diageo’s commitment to fostering excellence and ensuring a seamless progression to build on its legacy in India.
