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Havells appoints ex-Britannia Chief to board

Havells India has appointed former Britannia Industries chief Varun Berry as an independent director on its board, adding one of India’s best-known corporate leaders to the company’s leadership team. His appointment is effective from April 22 and will be for five years, subject to shareholder approval.

Berry is widely respected in the consumer goods industry and is known for helping transform Britannia into one of India’s strongest food brands during his tenure. Under his leadership, the company expanded its product portfolio, improved profits and strengthened its market presence.

This is one of Berry’s first major corporate roles since stepping down from Britannia in late 2025. His move to Havells is being seen as an important addition at a time when competition in the electrical goods and consumer appliances market is increasing.

Havells is one of India’s leading consumer brands, known for products such as fans, switches, cables, lighting solutions and kitchen appliances. It also owns Lloyd, a major brand in the air-conditioner and home appliance segment.

Industry experts believe Berry’s experience in understanding consumer demand, building brands and managing large businesses could help Havells in its next stage of expansion. As an independent director, he will also bring an outside perspective to board decisions and corporate strategy.

Before Britannia, Berry held senior positions at PepsiCo and worked with Hindustan Unilever earlier in his career. His long experience across sectors gives him strong knowledge of Indian consumers and business growth strategies.

The appointment was announced alongside Havells’ latest quarterly earnings, where the company reported solid financial performance and announced a dividend for shareholders. This added to the positive sentiment around the company.

Investors often view the appointment of experienced independent directors as a sign of stronger governance and long-term planning. Berry’s presence on the board is expected to boost confidence among shareholders and market watchers.

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Leaders

Britannia CEO resigns after 13 years

Britannia Industries has announced a major leadership change, with Varun Berry stepping down as Executive Vice-Chairman, Managing Director and CEO after over a decade at the helm. His resignation, submitted on November 6, was accepted by the company’s board on November 10.

Berry joined Britannia in 2013 as Chief Operating Officer and became Managing Director the following year. During his tenure, he steered the company’s transformation from a biscuit-focused brand into a diversified food enterprise with a strong presence in dairy, bakery, and snacks.

The board has appointed Rakshit Hargave as the new Managing Director and CEO, effective December 15, 2025, for a five-year term. Until then, Natarajan Venkataraman, Executive Director and CFO, will serve as interim CEO.

Britannia said the transition reflects a “planned leadership succession” aimed at sustaining growth, expanding regional presence, and advancing its vision of becoming a “global total foods company.”

Berry’s exit marks the end of a defining chapter in Britannia’s growth story, while Hargave’s appointment signals a fresh phase focused on innovation and new market opportunities.

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