Hires & Promotions: Third Wave Coffee, DDB Mudra, Bombay Shaving Company

Third Wave Coffee’s CEO Sushant Goel transitions to board role; paves way for new CEO  

Third Wave Coffee has reported the transition of Sushant Goel from his current role as chief executive officer to a member of the board and appointment of Rajat Luthra, as their new CEO, effective from Q1 FY 24-25. Goel will continue to contribute towards the growth and development of the coffee brand. Rajat Luthra, former CEO of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) India & Nepal (Devyani International Limited) will assume the position of CEO bringing in his wealth of experience to lead Third Wave Coffee into its next phase of success. 

Commenting on this development, Sushant Goel, co-founder and CEO says, “As CEO and Co-founder, I have had the privilege of leading the company through its formative years and I am incredibly proud of the journey that we have embarked on. The brand is ready to embark on its next leg of growth. Now, as I transition to the Board, I am excited to continue contributing towards our vision and growth from a different vantage point. Rajat is a veteran in the QSR industry, and I am filled with optimism about what the future holds for Third Wave Coffee under his stewardship.”

As CEO, Goel was responsible for steering the company’s business strategy and forging robust investor relations. In his capacity as a board member, Goel will continue to guide the strategic direction of the company and develop new initiatives for Third Wave Coffee.  

The newly appointed CEO, Rajat Luthra, brings nearly three decades of extensive experience in the FMCG and QSR sectors, of which during the last 10+ years, he has been serving as the CEO of Kentucky Fried Chicken (KFC) India & Nepal (Devyani International).  

In a joint statement, representatives of their investor companies Westbridge Capital and Creaegis mention, “We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Sushant for his instrumental role in shaping the remarkable journey of Third Wave Coffee thus far. His vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment as CEO have been pivotal in propelling our company to new heights. As Sushant transitions to his new role on the board, we are confident that his guidance and strategic insights will continue to steer us towards even greater success. We also warmly welcome Rajat Luthra, who has rich experience with QSRs at scale, and are excited about the fresh perspective and leadership he will bring to the table. Together, under Sushant's continued guidance and Rajat's leadership, we are poised to embrace new opportunities and drive the company to new heights”

Mehak Jaini bids adieu to DDB Mudra after 15-year stint

Mehak Jaini, national strategy head of 22feet Tribal Worldwide and vice president strategy of DDB Mudra Group, has decided to move on from the agency. She started her journey at the agency in 2008.

Confirming her departure, Jaini says, "14 March 2024 was Day 0 of being on the other side of DDB Mudra Group. Saying goodbye to the place I have called home, the people I have called Family, and the work I have called Love, wasn't easy."

Jaini’s current mandate includes shaping the group’s digital strategy practice, talent grooming and anchoring strategy for some of the group’s largest businesses as well as the group’s new business agenda.

Bombay Shaving Company appoints Durgesh Chugh as chief sales officer

Visage Lines Personal Care, the holding company of brands Bombay Shaving Company and Bombae, has appointed Durgesh Chugh as their chief sales officer for India and international markets.

A seasoned FMCG leader, Chugh comes with over 25 years of rich experience in omni-channel marketing and sales operations, the company said in a release.

Before joining Bombay Shaving Company, Chugh held key leadership positions at Colgate Palmolive, Marico, TBO Holidays & Emami.

Commenting on his appointment, Durgesh Chugh mentions, "I'm excited to join Bombay Shaving Company at this stage of its journey. Both Bombay Shaving Company and Bombae have done well to achieve significant market and shelf share in tough categories and difficult offline retail environments in a short span of time. I'm really looking forward to working with Shantanu, Deepak and the exceptional team to create strong channel salience for the brand and a long-term roadmap for continuous consumer access and delight.”

"We are thrilled to welcome Durgesh to the leadership team and the BSC family," shares Deepak Gupta, co-founder and COO, Bombay Shaving Company (VLPCPL) "Offline Sales are complex and challenging in India. Durgesh's formidable experience, strategic foresight and strong channel relationships give us immense confidence as we look to take the brand to 5cr Indian bathrooms in this next phase of growth. On behalf of the entire team at Bombay Shaving Company, I wish Durgesh the very best in this new journey with us."