Footwear major Bata India on Thursday announced the appointment of Sanjay Rao as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, marking a leadership transition at one of the country’s largest footwear retailers.
Rao will succeed Gunjan Shah, who is set to conclude his tenure upon completion of his five-year mandate leading the company, Bata India said in a regulatory filing.
Rao joins Bata India from sportswear giant Nike, where he most recently served as Senior Director, Nike Retail, overseeing operations across the France and Benelux markets. He brings more than two decades of experience in the retail and consumer sectors, having held leadership roles across India, South Asia, China and Europe.
Prior to Nike, Rao spent several years with
Inditex, where he played a key role in establishing Zara’s business in India through its joint venture with the Tata Group. He later took on senior leadership responsibilities across India, South Asia and China. Rao has also served as Country Director for Guess in France and holds an MBA from INSEAD.
Welcoming the appointment, Bata Group CEO Panos Mytaros said, “Sanjay brings deep retail and consumer experience, international perspective and a strong understanding of the Indian market. He knows how to build businesses, develop teams and create momentum.”
Highlighting the strategic importance of the Indian market, Mytaros added, “India is one of Bata Group’s most important markets and one of its biggest long-term growth opportunities. Bata India has a powerful brand, deep consumer trust, strong foundations and significant room to grow.”
The appointment comes as Bata India continues to focus on strengthening its retail footprint, expanding its premium product portfolio and driving long-term growth in one of the world’s fastest-growing consumer markets.
