CEO Shuffle at Emami Paper: Khetan In, Chawla Out, Strategy Gets a New Draft

In a significant leadership transition, Emami Paper Mills Ltd, one of India’s leading paper and packaging board manufacturers, has announced the appointment of Sushil Kumar Khetan as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO). This move follows the resignation of Vivek Chawla, who stepped down from the role after a notable tenure marked by strategic growth and operational expansion.

The change was confirmed through a regulatory filing and internal communication from the company, signaling a new chapter in Emami Paper Mills’ executive leadership. The appointment of Khetan is expected to bring renewed focus on operational efficiency, innovation, and sustainability—key pillars of the company’s long-term strategy.

Brief Introduction to Emami Paper Mills Ltd
Emami Paper Mills Ltd, part of the diversified Emami Group, is a major player in the paper manufacturing industry, specializing in newsprint, writing and printing paper, and high-end packaging boards. With manufacturing units in Odisha and West Bengal, the company serves both domestic and international markets, and is known for its commitment to quality, environmental responsibility, and technological advancement.

Leadership Transition: Key Highlights
Vivek Chawla’s Departure

Vivek Chawla, a seasoned industry veteran with over four decades of experience, has officially stepped down as CEO.

His tenure was marked by modernization of production facilities, expansion into premium packaging segments, and improved financial performance.

Chawla also played a pivotal role in navigating the company through pandemic-related disruptions and global supply chain challenges.

Sushil Kumar Khetan’s Appointment

Sushil Kumar Khetan, who previously held senior operational roles within Emami Group, has been appointed CEO effective immediately.

Khetan brings deep expertise in manufacturing, supply chain management, and strategic planning.

His leadership style is expected to emphasize agility, cost optimization, and digital transformation.

Strategic Implications of the CEO Change
The appointment of Khetan comes at a time when Emami Paper Mills is actively pursuing expansion in the sustainable packaging segment and exploring new export markets. The company is also investing in automation and green technologies to reduce its carbon footprint and enhance operational resilience.

Under Khetan’s leadership, the company is expected to:

Accelerate its shift toward eco-friendly paper products

Strengthen its position in the FMCG and pharmaceutical packaging board segments

Enhance profitability through lean manufacturing and waste reduction

Deepen stakeholder engagement and investor confidence

Market Reaction and Industry Sentiment
The leadership change has been met with cautious optimism by market analysts and industry observers. While Chawla’s departure marks the end of a stable era, Khetan’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to inject fresh energy into the company’s growth ambitions.

Shares of Emami Paper Mills Ltd remained steady following the announcement, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s succession planning and governance framework.

Internal Commentary and Future Outlook
While an official statement from the new CEO is awaited, sources within the company suggest that Khetan is already engaging with department heads to align operational goals with strategic priorities. A formal roadmap outlining his vision for the next fiscal year is expected to be shared during the upcoming board meeting.

The Emami Group, known for its strong leadership bench and succession planning, has reiterated its commitment to continuity and excellence across its business verticals. The transition at Emami Paper Mills is expected to be smooth, with minimal disruption to ongoing projects and client relationships.

Sources: Leadership Team – Emami Group, MarketScreener, Zauba Corp