USL picks Diageo MD to head luxury unit

United Spirits Limited (USL) has appointed Diageo India’s managing director as head of a new luxury division designed to take care of premium Diageo brands.

Abanti Sankaranarayanan moved into the position of business head for luxury and corporate relations at USL on 1 May.

Sankaranarayanan will be tasked with leading brands such as Johnnie Walker, Ciroc vodka and its single malts range, as well as spearheading the USL’s “leadership and execution” on public policy, regulatory, tax and trade affairs, alcohol policy, corporate reputation and brand, and sustainability and responsibility.

“We are delighted to have a leader of Abanti’s talent and global calibre to lead our luxury portfolio and drive our corporate relations efforts in India,” said Anand Kripalu, MD and CEO of USL.

“Her extensive leadership experience and expertise will add strong momentum to the growth of USL’s business in India.”

Sankaranarayanan boasts more than 20 years’ experience in the consumer industry and has held the position of managing director for Diageo India since 2012.

Diageo reports its portfolio experienced double-digit growth and “robust equity results” under the guidance of Sankaranarayanan.

Sankaranarayanan commented: “I am delighted to take up this new position at USL as we continue the journey to make USL the most trusted and respected consumer goods company in India.”