Mumbai; Bata India has named Sanjay Rao as its new Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, ushering in a leadership transition as the footwear major prepares for its next phase of growth in one of its most important global markets.
Rao succeeds Gunjan Shah, who has completed a five-year tenure at the helm of the company. The appointment brings to Bata a seasoned retail executive with more than two decades of experience across consumer and retail businesses spanning India, South Asia, China, and Europe.
Prior to joining Bata India, Rao served as Senior Director, Nike Retail, where he was responsible for the France and Benelux markets. Throughout his career, he has held leadership roles focused on business expansion, consumer engagement, and retail transformation across multiple geographies.
Announcing the appointment, Panos Mytaros, Chief Executive Officer, Bata Group, said, “India is one of Bata Group’s most important markets and one of our biggest long-term growth opportunities. Bata India has a powerful brand, deep consumer trust and strong foundations. The next chapter must focus on becoming even closer to consumers, responding faster to trends and strengthening relevance across categories. Sanjay brings deep retail expertise, international experience and a strong understanding of the Indian market. We are confident he is the right leader to guide Bata India into its next phase of accelerated growth.”
Mytaros also acknowledged the contribution of outgoing CEO Gunjan Shah, crediting him with strengthening the business and laying a strong foundation for future growth.
Echoing the sentiment, Ashwani Windlass, Chairman, Bata India, said, “Gunjan’s leadership helped elevate the consumer experience, drive innovation and build a strong leadership team. His contribution has created a solid platform for the future. We are delighted to welcome Sanjay to Bata India. His versatile background, proven track record and deep understanding of consumer and retail markets make him exceptionally well suited to lead the company into its next phase of growth, with a strong focus on consumer relevance, product strength and long-term value creation.”
The leadership change comes as Bata India continues to sharpen its focus on product innovation, consumer-centric growth, and strengthening its position in the country’s evolving footwear and lifestyle market. With Rao’s international retail experience and consumer-focused leadership approach, the company is expected to further accelerate its growth strategy while building on the momentum established under Shah’s tenure.
