Mahesh Kanchan has been appointed Managing Director, India and Southeast Asia, Bacardi, effective 1 October 2026
He succeeds Vinay Golikeri, who has been promoted to Regional President for Asia, Middle East and Africa (AMEA) and Global Travel Retail (GTR), following more than three years leading the India and Southeast Asia region and more than twenty years with Bacardi.
“It’s been a privilege to lead the India business, and I’m proud of the momentum we’ve built and the strength of the team,” says Vinay Golikeri. “India remains a critical market for Bacardi, and I look forward to continuing to work closely with Mahesh to build on this progress as part of my wider AMEA role.”
Mahesh Kanchan, currently Managing Director, Southeast Asia, brings more than 30 years of experience, across both alcoholic beverages and Fast Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) industries. Having played an instrumental role in strengthening the business across the region and laying the foundations for future success, Mahesh will now take on day-to-day leadership of India and Southeast Asia. He will lead the next phase of growth for Bacardi in India, a market that continues to play a critical role in the family-owned company’s long-term strategy.
“I’m excited to take on this role at a time of significant opportunity for Bacardi in India,” says Mahesh Kanchan. “We have a strong team, clear momentum and a business well positioned for its next phase of growth.”
India is a key market for Bacardi, underpinned by a long history in the country, continued investment and strong growth momentum. It is also a proven source of talent for Bacardi globally, having produced a number of senior leaders across the organization, including the Bacardi Limited Chief Executive Officer, Mahesh Madhavan, and remains an important pipeline of future leadership for the business.
Read more: Appointments
