Maruti Suzuki has made two significant leadership changes, further reinforcing its commitment to technological advancement and long-term growth. Dr. Tapan Sahoo has been appointed as the Head of Digital Enterprise and Information & Cyber Security, while Sunil Kakkar has been appointed Corporate Planning Director, effective April 1, 2025.
Dr. Sahoo’s elevation to the role of Head of Digital Enterprise and Information & Cyber Security marks a critical step in Maruti Suzuki’s ongoing digital transformation journey. The appointment, approved by the company’s board of directors, is part of its strategic push towards pioneering innovation in the automotive sector. With over 33 years of experience in the company, Dr. Sahoo has played an integral role in enhancing Maruti Suzuki’s R&D capabilities and facilitating technological advancements within the Indian automotive supply chain. In his new capacity, he will spearhead the company’s digital strategy, focusing on implementing cutting-edge technologies such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML). Furthermore, he will foster collaborations with startups and academic institutions to drive technological progress.
An alumnus of IIT Delhi, with both an MBA and a PhD, Dr. Sahoo is recognised as a Fellow by the Indian National Academy of Engineering (INAE) and the Society for Technology Management (STEM). His exceptional expertise in product planning, technology management, and strategic development positions him to drive the next phase of Maruti Suzuki’s digital and cybersecurity initiatives. The company aims to leverage his leadership to enhance customer experience, operational efficiency, and reinforce its cybersecurity framework, ensuring Maruti Suzuki remains at the forefront of technological innovation in the automotive industry.
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Meanwhile, Sunil Kakkar’s appointment as Corporate Planning Director marks a historic milestone as he becomes the first Indian to join Maruti Suzuki’s board in this esteemed role. A veteran of 35 years with the company, Sunil is an experienced leader who has played a pivotal role in shaping Maruti Suzuki’s strategic roadmap, restructuring initiatives, and localisation efforts. His contributions extend beyond corporate planning to leadership roles in the supply chain and production operations, including heading the Gurgaon plant.
A distinguished graduate of IIT Kanpur and a gold medalist MBA from the Asian Institute of Technology, Sunil’s vast experience also includes contributions to major joint ventures with global automotive companies. He holds directorial roles at several Maruti Suzuki associate companies and is actively involved in industry bodies like SIAM and ASSOCHAM. His new appointment is set to drive Maruti Suzuki’s continued strategic growth as the company looks to expand its footprint in an increasingly competitive automotive market.
Both appointments are cognizant of Maruti Suzuki’s dedication to strengthening its leadership team and enhancing its capabilities across key strategic areas. With Dr. Sahoo and Sunil Kakkar at the helm, the company is poised to take charge of digital innovation, operational excellence, and long-term success.
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