United Spirits CEO Anand Kripalu to be on Diageo's Executive Committee

In a yet another move of global corporations recognising Indian talent, Anand Kripalu - who took charge from May 2014 as CEO of India's largest spirits company - United Spirits, is being roped in to be part of Diageo's global Executive Committee.  Diageo currently owns close to 54% in United Spirits and Kripalu, a veteran in the FMCG sector, was chosen by Diageo to steer United Spirits ahead.

According to Diageo, these changes further enhance the in-market accountability which will be key to delivery of Diageo's performance ambition.  Kripalu will report to Nick Blazquez, President, Diageo Africa and Asia Pacific. These appointments will be effective 1 September 2014. This move to rope in Kripalu to the Executive Committee comes even as Diageo said that Gilbert Ghostine, who played a key role in overseeing Diageo's acquisition of United Spirits and later as president of Diageo India will be leaving the organisation on 30 September 2014. Ghostine has been with Diageo for 19 years and lately he was overseeing Asia-Pacific operations.  

Ivan Menezes, CEO, Diageo : “The changes we have announced today signal a further shift in Diageo from an organisation based on regions to one which puts accountability in the markets. In addition they strengthen our executive team and enhance our focus on two key growth markets, China and India. I congratulate Sam and Anand on their promotion to the Executive Committee."

Anand Kripalu prior to coming on board at United Spirits was President, India and South Asia at Mondelez International. In this position, Kripalu played a key role in leading Mondelez in India after the Cadbury acquisition by Kraft. He joined Cadbury India at the end of 2005 as Managing Director, Indian Sub-Continent and was subsequently appointed President, Cadbury Asia in October 2008. Prior to this, Anand worked in Unilever for 22 years.