Bata India Ltd has appointed Sanjay S. Rao as its Whole-time Director, Chief Executive Officer (Key Managerial Personnel) and Managing Director, marking a planned leadership transition at the footwear and retail major.
The company announced that Rao will join Bata India as Whole-time Director and Chief Executive Officer with effect from 24th August 2026. He will subsequently assume the role of Managing Director and CEO from 1st October 2026, for a five-year term ending 23rd August 2031, subject to the necessary regulatory and shareholder approvals.
The appointment follows the completion of the five-year tenure of the company’s current Managing Director and CEO, Gunjan Shah, whose term is scheduled to conclude on 30th September 2026.
According to the company, the transition is aimed at further strengthening Bata India’s retail operations and enhancing its consumer-focused growth strategy.
Rao brings more than two decades of experience in the retail and consumer sectors, having held leadership positions across India, South Asia, China and Europe.
He joins Bata India from Nike, where he served as Senior Director, Nike Retail, overseeing operations across France and the Benelux region. During his tenure, he was responsible for driving retail growth and strengthening the company’s presence in key European markets.
Prior to joining Nike, Rao played a key role in establishing the Indian operations of Zara through its joint venture with Tata Group while working with Inditex, the parent company of Zara. He also served as Country Director for Guess in France.
Industry observers believe Rao’s extensive international experience across fashion, footwear and retail sectors could support Bata India’s efforts to strengthen its market position and accelerate growth in an increasingly competitive consumer landscape.
Bharat Tex Special Report 2026 
