Bacardi has elevated Mahesh Kanchan as Managing Director for India and Southeast Asia, effective October 1, 2026, as part of a leadership change aimed at driving the company’s next phase of growth in the region.
Kanchan will take over from Vinay Golikeri, who has been promoted to Regional President for Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) and Global Travel Retail (GTR). Golikeri led Bacardi’s India and Southeast Asia business for more than three years and has spent over two decades with the company.
Kanchan has more than 30 years of experience in the alcoholic beverages and fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sectors. In his new role, he will oversee Bacardi’s day-to-day operations across India and Southeast Asia, with a focus on expanding the business in one of the company’s key markets.
Commenting on the transition, Golikeri said, “It’s been a privilege to lead the India business, and I’m proud of the momentum we’ve built and the strength of the team. India remains a critical market for Bacardi, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with Mahesh to build on this progress as part of my wider AMEA role.”
Bacardi said India remains one of its most important global markets, supported by continued investments and strong business growth. The company also highlighted India’s role as a key talent hub, noting that several senior global leaders, including Bacardi CEO Mahesh Madhavan, have emerged from its India operations.
