Bacardi Appoints Mahesh Kanchan as Managing Director for India & Southeast Asia

Bacardi has appointed Mahesh Kanchan as Managing Director for India and Southeast Asia, effective October 1, 2026, marking a significant leadership transition as the spirits company continues to strengthen its presence across two of its most important growth markets.

Kanchan succeeds Vinay Golikeri, who has been promoted to Regional President for Asia, Middle East & Africa (AMEA) and Global Travel Retail (GTR). The transition reflects Bacardi’s continued focus on developing internal leadership while accelerating business growth across the region.

With more than three decades of experience spanning the alcoholic beverages and FMCG sectors, Kanchan brings extensive expertise in brand building, commercial strategy, sales leadership, and business transformation. Prior to joining Bacardi, he served as Chief Executive Officer and Board Member at Del Monte Foods India. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership positions at Carlsberg India, Hershey India, Hindustan Unilever, UB Group, DHL Express, and Bayer.

Kanchan joined Bacardi in 2024 as Marketing Director for India and Neighbouring Countries before taking over as Managing Director for Southeast Asia. In his expanded role, he will now lead the company’s operations across both India and Southeast Asia, driving commercial growth, strengthening brand equity, and expanding Bacardi’s market presence.

India remains one of Bacardi’s most strategically important markets, supported by sustained investments, growing consumer demand, and a strong leadership pipeline. Under Mahesh Kanchan’s leadership, the company aims to build on its current momentum while delivering the next phase of growth across the India and Southeast Asia region.