Even as the industry is gearing up for the ensuing Delhi Auto Show, two big multinational car makers — Ford and Renault — have announced new leaders for their India ventures.
Ford Motor Company has appointed Nigel Harris, Vice-President Sales and Service, Ford Asia Pacific, as President of Ford India. His appointment will take effect from February 1.
Mr. Harris will succeed Joginder Singh, who has been assigned a new role of Director, Corporate Strategy, Ford Motor Company. Mr. Singh has been in India since 2008, and played a key role in the launch of Ford EcoSport.
Mr. Harris will be based at Ford’s corporate office in Gurgaon, and report to David Schoch, President, Ford Asia Pacific. Mr. Harris, it may be recalled, served as the Brand Development Manager for global B cars during Ford’s entry into the Indian market 15 years ago. “This continued through his current role overseeing sales, distribution and service for Asia Pacific, which includes India,” the release points out.
Renault, in the meanwhile, has appointed Sumit Sawhney as Country CEO and Managing Director for Renault Group operations in India.
Mr. Sawhney will take over from Marc Nassif, who is set to take up a global assignment within the group. The appointment is effective from February 1. Mr. Sawhney will manage the entire operations of Renault in India, and will report to Gilles Normand-Chairman, Asia Pacific Region for Renault. Mr. Sawhney joined Renault in India as Executive Director in September 2012 from General Motors.
