R Velusamy to Head M&M Auto, Nakra to Steer Farm Equipment, Hemant Sikka to Lead Mahindra Logistics

Mumbai-headquartered Mahindra & Mahindra, in a major reshuffling, has appointed R. Velusamy as the President of the Automotive Business (AB), while Veejay Nakra has moved to become President of the Farm Equipment Business (FEB). Furthermore, Hemant Sikka has been appointed Managing Director & CEO of Mahindra Logistics Ltd (MLL).

In a statement released by the company, the automotive reins are being handed to R. Velusamy, previously Head of Automotive Technology and Product Development. In his new role as President of the Automotive Business, Velusamy will oversee Mahindra’s entire automotive portfolio, including its SUV and LCV segments, under a unified leadership model. "To prepare for a future driven by technology innovation and to lead opportunities for growth in both domestic and global markets, we will now integrate the SUV and LCV (less than 3.5-tonne) businesses under one leader," the company said. The aim: to drive synergy in engineering and go-to-market strategies.

Velusamy, a Mahindra veteran since 1996, has played a central role in developing world-class powertrains and spearheading both ICE and electric vehicle portfolios. He will report to Rajesh Jejurikar.

Meanwhile, the Farm Equipment Business—one of Mahindra’s most profitable divisions, with a return on capital employed exceeding 60%—will now be led by Veejay Nakra. Nakra, who is currently President of the Automotive Division, joined Mahindra in 1995 and is credited with orchestrating a turnaround in the Auto Business, guiding successful vehicle launches, and driving international strategy. He will continue to report to Executive Director Rajesh Jejurikar.

Likewise, Hemant Sikka, formerly President of the Farm Equipment Sector, has been named Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Mahindra Logistics (MLL), replacing Ram Swaminathan, who steps down to “pursue other professional interests.” “We believe that MLL has tremendous potential for growth and value creation, and we are committed to unlocking this potential,” the company stated.

Dr. Anish Shah, Group CEO and Managing Director, summed up the reshuffle with strategic clarity: “These leadership changes ensure that we have strong, proven leaders at the helm of our key businesses. Their experience will enable us to drive significant growth and create greater value for our customers and shareholders. We thank Ram for his contributions to the company, and wish Hemant, Veejay, and Velu the very best for the journey ahead."