Puma has appointed Ramprasad Sridharan as managing director for India, effective December 2025, marking a key leadership change for the sportswear company as it seeks to deepen its presence in one of its fastest-growing markets. The company said he will report to chief commercial officer Matthias Bäumer and succeed Karthik Balagopalan, who is leaving to pursue opportunities outside the organisation.
Sridharan brings more than 25 years of retail and brand management experience across Asia Pacific. He was most recently chief executive and managing director of United Colors of Benetton India, where he led a broad transformation programme that included modernising the brand’s retail footprint and strengthening its digital channels. His earlier roles include senior leadership positions at Clarks, overseeing India operations, and at Reebok India, where he contributed to retail consolidation and growth initiatives.
Puma said the appointment supports its strategy to expand its omnichannel footprint, accelerate e-commerce and build deeper engagement with Indian consumers, particularly in sports and youth-focused segments. India has become a priority market for global apparel and footwear companies as rising disposable incomes and urban demand continue to reshape consumption patterns.
Analysts noted that competition in India’s sportswear sector has intensified, with international brands stepping up investment in retail expansion, local marketing and digital capabilities. Sridharan’s experience in brand transformation, commercial strategy and operational leadership is expected to help Puma navigate this landscape and scale its store network, digital platforms and customer touchpoints.
The company also said it intends to strengthen internal talent pipelines and leadership capabilities as part of its long-term plan for India. With the market becoming central to global growth strategies, Sridharan’s appointment is viewed as a move to reinforce operational depth and sharpen execution amid rising consumer expectations.
Puma’s leadership transition comes at a time when global sportswear companies are accelerating investments in technology, direct-to-consumer channels and brand positioning. Sridharan’s mandate will include driving consistency across retail formats, boosting digital engagement and shaping local market strategy as the brand targets sustained expansion.