Image Source: The Economic Times
Nestlé India Ltd. has officially announced the retirement of its Chairman and Managing Director, Suresh Narayanan, effective July 31, 2025. After a remarkable 26-year journey with the Nestlé Group, including a decade-long leadership stint in India, Narayanan steps down, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, innovation, and exponential growth. His successor, Manish Tiwary, former Amazon India head, will assume charge from August 1, ushering in a new chapter for the FMCG giant.
Key Highlights:
Suresh Narayanan retires as Chairman and MD of Nestlé India after 26 years with the company.
Manish Tiwary, who joined Nestlé India earlier this year, will take over as MD starting August 1.
Under Narayanan’s leadership, Nestlé India’s revenue surged from ₹8,000 crore in 2015 to over ₹20,000 crore in 2025.
Leadership Legacy:
Crisis Management and Brand Revival:
Narayanan is widely credited for steering Nestlé India through the 2015 Maggi noodles crisis.
His swift action and strategic communication helped Maggi reclaim 60% market share within months of its relaunch.
The turnaround positioned Maggi as India’s largest instant noodle brand once again.
Innovation and Portfolio Expansion:
Nestlé India launched over 150 new products during his tenure, quadrupling its innovation pace post-crisis.
New business verticals such as breakfast cereals, pet care, and health science were introduced under his guidance.
The joint venture with Dr. Reddy’s in health science marked a strategic diversification into nutraceuticals.
Sustainability and Inclusion:
Narayanan championed sustainability, making Nestlé India plastic neutral for four consecutive years.
He drove diversity initiatives, increasing female representation in manufacturing and hiring differently-abled individuals.
The Sanand factory in Gujarat now boasts 45% women workforce, a first in the sector.
Financial and Market Impact:
Nestlé India’s market capitalization quadrupled during Narayanan’s tenure, reaching ₹2.15 lakh crore as of July 30, 2025.
Profit after tax rose nearly sixfold, while return on equity surged from 19% to nearly 90%.
Shareholder base expanded sevenfold, reflecting growing investor confidence.
Incoming Leadership:
Manish Tiwary brings over two decades of experience from Unilever and Amazon India.
His appointment signals a digital-first, consumer-centric approach for Nestlé India’s next growth phase.
Tiwary is expected to focus on Gen Z engagement, e-commerce acceleration, and regional brand collaborations.
Industry Sentiment and Stock Movement:
Nestlé India’s stock closed at ₹2,249.45 on July 31, up 0.79%, reflecting investor optimism about leadership continuity.
Analysts view the transition as smooth, with Tiwary’s global exposure complementing Nestlé’s evolving strategy.
The company’s strong fundamentals and diversified portfolio are expected to support sustained growth.
Looking Ahead:
Strategic Priorities:
Continued focus on premiumisation and rural penetration.
Expansion of health science and pet care segments.
Strengthening digital engagement and sustainability metrics.
Cultural Continuity:
Narayanan emphasized a culture of dignity, trust, and respect—values expected to remain central under Tiwary.
Nestlé India’s employee-first ethos and stakeholder alignment will guide future decisions.
Conclusion:
Suresh Narayanan’s retirement marks the end of an era defined by resilience, transformation, and visionary leadership. His legacy is etched in Nestlé India’s turnaround story—from crisis to commanding market leadership. As Manish Tiwary steps in, the company is poised to build on this foundation and chart new frontiers in India’s dynamic FMCG landscape.
Source: Economic Times, ET Now – July 31, 2025
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