Bata India taps Nike's Sanjay Rao as CEO; MD role from October 2026
Bata India has named Sanjay Rao CEO effective August 24, with the MD title transitioning from incumbent Gunjan Shah on October 1, 2026, through August 23, 2031. Rao arrives from Nike, having previously launched Zara India for Inditex with Tata and led Guess, signaling a brand-led playbook for Bata's next chapter.
What happened
Bata India appointed Sanjay Rao as CEO effective August 24, and MD from October 1, 2026, succeeding Gunjan Shah. Rao joins from Nike, with prior stints at
Key facts
- August 24
- October 1, 2026
- August 23, 2031
- five-year
Why this matters
Rao's Inditex and Nike background opens potential for new licensing, JV, or portfolio brand additions at Bata India, making it both a sharper competitor in premium footwear and a more active counterparty for brand partnerships.