Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL), the country’s leading automobile manufacturer, has announced the appointment of Sunil Kakkar as an Additional Director and Whole-time Director, with the designation of Director (Corporate Planning). His tenure will commence on April 1, 2025, and continue until March 31, 2028.
The company’s Board of Directors approved the decision during a meeting on March 26, 2025. This appointment reflects MSIL’s commitment to strengthening its leadership team as it strategizes for future growth.
In a regulatory filing with the National Stock Exchange of India (NSE) and BSE Limited, Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL) detailed Sunil Kakkar’s appointment in compliance with the SEBI (Listing Obligations and Disclosure Requirements) Regulations, 2015. The company also announced a leadership change, with Kenichiro Toyofuku transitioning from Director (Corporate Planning) to Director (Sustainability), effective the same date.
With over 35 years of experience at Maruti Suzuki, Kakkar previously served as Senior Executive Officer and head of the Corporate Planning vertical. A key member of the company’s Executive Committee, he has played a pivotal role in shaping MSIL’s strategic direction, driving ambitious growth objectives, and leading restructuring initiatives to enhance organizational agility. His appointment reflects MSIL’s commitment to strengthening its corporate planning capabilities as it navigates the evolving automotive landscape.
Sunil Kakkar, an IIT Kanpur engineering graduate with an MBA from the Asian Institute of Technology, brings extensive leadership experience to his new role at Maruti Suzuki India Limited (MSIL). Over his 35-year tenure, he has led critical functions, including supply chain management and production operations, playing a key role in localizing components and forging global joint ventures.
Beyond MSIL, Kakkar holds directorships in several associate companies and chairs key industry bodies, advocating for localization in the Indian auto sector. His expertise in corporate planning and supply chain management is expected to help MSIL navigate evolving market dynamics, stricter emission norms, and the shift toward electric mobility.
Meanwhile, Kenichiro Toyofuku’s transition to Director (Sustainability) highlights MSIL’s growing focus on environmental initiatives, aligning with global trends and India’s push for greener transportation. These leadership changes signal MSIL’s commitment to both operational excellence and sustainable growth.
As Sunil Kakkar assumes his new role, industry observers will be watching closely to see how he utilizes his vast experience to drive Maruti Suzuki’s growth and sustain its leadership in India’s automotive sector.
 to Director (Sustainability), effective April 1, 2025.){kind=link}