Kanchan succeeds Vinay Golikeri, who has been promoted to Regional President for Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) and Global Travel Retail (GTR)
Bacardi has appointed Mahesh Kanchan as Managing Director for India and Southeast Asia, effective 1 October 2026. Kanchan succeeds Vinay Golikeri, who has been promoted to Regional President for Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) and Global Travel Retail (GTR).
Kanchan brings more than 30 years of experience across both alcoholic beverages and Fast-moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industries. Having played an instrumental role in strengthening the business across the region and laying the foundations for future success, he will now take on day-to-day leadership of India and Southeast Asia.
“I am excited to take on this role at a time of significant opportunity for Bacardi in India. We have a strong team, clear momentum and a business well positioned for its next phase of growth,” stated Mahesh Kanchan.
He will lead the next phase of growth for Bacardi in India, a market that continues to play a critical role in the family-owned company’s long-term strategy, the company said. The official statement added that India is a key market for Bacardi. It is also a proven source of talent for Bacardi globally, having produced a number of senior leaders across the organisation, including the Bacardi Chief Executive Officer, Mahesh Madhavan.
“It has been a privilege to lead the India business and I am proud of the momentum we have 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,” stated Vinay Golikeri.
