Ford and Renault to get new India heads

Global carmakers Ford and Renault today both announced new appointments for the top positions of their respective Indian operations.

Effective from February 1, 2014, Nigel Harris, vice president for sales and service, Ford Asia Pacific, will take over from Joginder Singh as president of Ford India. Singh, meanwhile, will take on the role of director of corporate strategy at Ford, USA. As president of Ford India, Nigel Harris will be involved with both local operations as well as exports, and will oversee work on the company’s new plant in Sanand, Gujarat.

“Nigel’s deep understanding of the Indian market will help the company build on its strong foundation and develop a robust product strategy to ensure long-term profitable growth for the company and a bright future for everyone associated with Ford in India,” said Ford Asia Pacific president David Schoch.

Meanwhile, and also effective February 1, Renault India will get a new head too, as Sumit Sawhney takes the reins as CEO and managing director. Current CEO and MD Marc Nassif will be moving to another global position within the company. Sumit Sawhney has been with Renault India since September 2012 as executive director, and so, has had a lot of experience with the brand and the market.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank Marc Nassif who has played a pivotal role in successfully launching Renault in India,” said Gilles Normand, Renault’s Asia Pacific chairman. “At the same time, I am glad that Sumit is taking over India operations with his rich experience and in-depth understanding of the Indian automotive business.”