L Catterton, one of the largest consumer-focused investment firms, has appointed Chetan Naik as Managing Director. The appointment strengthens the firm's leadership in India as it expands its consumer investment platform.
Based in Mumbai, Naik will work with L Catterton India Executive Chairman Sanjiv Mehta, Partner Vikram Kumaraswamy and the firm's global team to grow its presence in the country.
Naik brings nearly two decades of experience in private equity, venture growth and finance. He joins from 360 ONE Asset, where he led investments across consumer and consumer technology sectors.
His portfolio included beauty and personal care, fashion, food delivery, health and wellness, packaged food, quick commerce, restaurants and cloud kitchens.
During his career, he has partnered with founders and management teams to build category-leading businesses. His investments have delivered multiple successful exits and strong returns.
Expanding India's consumer investment platform
The appointment reflects L Catterton's growing focus on India. The firm sees significant long-term opportunities in the country's fast-growing consumer economy.
"Chetan is a proven investor in India’s consumer sector, and we are pleased to welcome him to the firm," said Sanjiv Mehta. "The country’s consumption supercycle is at a vibrant stage of its upward trajectory and we are leaning into the market with conviction and discipline.”
He further added, “Structural tailwinds are propelling the expansion of businesses in many categories, and we are focused on identifying and partnering with the ones which have robust fundamentals and are best positioned for long-term success."
Kumaraswamy said, "Chetan is an astute dealmaker with credentials investing in and scaling up consumer businesses that have come to be renowned brands in India. His capabilities compliment our dealmaking and operating expertise in the growth and buyout space.”
He mentioned, “This augments our differentiated offering in the country and we look forward to leveraging his experience as we continue to develop and capitalize on our strong pipeline of investment opportunities at the intersection of various consumer themes in India."
Backing India's next generation of consumer brands
Naik said India offers significant opportunities for consumer investors.
"L Catterton is the world's leading consumer-focused investment firm with a distinctive track record of building iconic brands and creating exceptional value. India's consumer economy continues to present compelling opportunities, spurred by innovation, evolving consumer preferences, and a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem,” Naik said.
He also mentioned, “I am delighted to join the firm at this exciting stage of its journey in the country and look forward to working closely with Sanjiv, Vikram, and other colleagues across L Catterton's global platform to build category-defining brands and create enduring value."
The appointment reinforces L Catterton's commitment to India. The firm is looking to back high-growth consumer businesses across both established and emerging categories.