New Delhi: Leading Indian spirits manufacturer Radico Khaitan has elevated Sudhir Upadhyay as Chief Sales Officer (CSO) and Kunal Madan as Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), reinforcing its leadership bench as the company sharpens its focus on premiumisation, global brand building, and future-ready growth.
The appointments reflect the company’s strategic emphasis on nurturing internal leadership talent while accelerating its next phase of expansion in premium spirits and international markets.
Sudhir Upadhyay Elevated as Chief Sales Officer
Sudhir Upadhyay, who brings over 25 years of industry experience and more than a decade with Radico Khaitan, steps into the role of Chief Sales Officer after serving as National Sales Head for the past two years.
In his new role, Upadhyay will lead distribution expansion, execution excellence, and market penetration strategies across geographies. His elevation comes at a time when premium segments are driving stronger margins and brand positioning for the company.
Kunal Madan Appointed Chief Marketing Officer
Kunal Madan, associated with the company for over 12 years, has been appointed Chief Marketing Officer. With more than two decades of experience across global sales and marketing, Madan will steer the overall marketing strategy, brand architecture, and the premiumisation roadmap.
He will also focus on strengthening international presence and travel retail channels, aligning with the company’s long-term global ambitions.
Leadership Built from Within: Abhishek Khaitan
Under the leadership of Managing Director Abhishek Khaitan, the company has consistently focused on developing internal talent as a long-term growth strategy.
Commenting on the leadership progression, Khaitan said:
“At Radico Khaitan, our growth has always been powered by people. We deeply believe that true leadership is not imported, it is cultivated. Over the years, we have consciously chosen to elevate talent from within the organisation, because when individuals are given responsibility, trust, and the opportunity to grow, leadership is shaped organically. Empowering our next generation of leaders is not just a strategic priority, it reflects our faith in our people and our conviction that those who grow with the organisation are best placed to carry its values forward.”
The current core leadership team includes Dilip Banthiya (Chief Financial Officer), Sanjeev Banga (President – International Business), Sudhir Upadhyay (Chief Sales Officer), Kunal Madan (Chief Marketing Officer), and Saket Somani (Head – Finance & Strategy).
As part of the leadership transition, Amar Sinha has stepped down from his role as Chief Operating Officer. Acknowledging his contributions, Khaitan said:
“We sincerely appreciate Amar’s contributions during his tenure with the Company. His commitment and efforts across key initiatives have supported our growth journey, and we thank him for his dedication. We wish him the very best in his future endeavours.”
Strategic Push Toward Premium Spirits
The leadership realignment comes as Radico Khaitan intensifies its premium spirits strategy — a segment that has emerged as a key growth driver in recent years. The company is expanding its footprint across high-growth consumption channels, modern trade, and global markets, supported by stronger brand positioning and distribution capabilities.
With these appointments, Radico Khaitan signals continuity, strategic clarity, and a sharpened focus on premiumisation and international expansion as it prepares for its next growth cycle.
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