Kumar Chander named CEO & MD of Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting

Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting has announced Yardley’s India and Southeast Asia president, Kumar Chander, as its new CEO and MD. He will take over from CEO Vineet Agrawal who will retire in January 2026 after 40 years with the company.

Chander has been with Wipro Consumer Care for 34 years and has led operations across India, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East. As President – Southeast Asia and Yardley India, he played a key role in integrating Wipro Consumer Care’s international acquisitions and establishing the acquired brands into leadership positions in these geographies.

The new CEO and MD, on his appointment, said: “It is an honour and privilege to lead Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting at this important moment. Wipro has shaped me both personally and professionally. I am committed to building on the strong foundation laid by Vineet and the many teams across the world who have shaped this remarkable organisation. Together, we will continue to grow with purpose and create meaningful impact across markets.”

Reflecting on the transition, Azim Premji, Chairman, Wipro Enterprises, shared: “Vineet has played a defining role in shaping Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting into a formidable, globally respected business - growing it from ₹300 crore in 2003 to over ₹10,600 crore now, transforming it from a domestic player to a truly international business."

"He transformed Santoor into a leading Indian brand, led 15 strategic acquisitions, and built a strong platform for innovation and growth. His instinctive understanding of people, culture, and long-term value creation has left a lasting legacy. I thank him for his extraordinary contribution over four decades,” added Premji.

Outgoing CEO Agrawal joined Wipro in 1985 and became CEO of Wipro Consumer Care & Lighting in 2002. Over the past two decades, he has led the transformation of the company into a global FMCG conglomerate. Under his leadership, Wipro Consumer Care completed 15 strategic acquisitions, significantly expanded its global brand portfolio, and grew Santoor into one of India’s top two soap brands.

When he took charge in 2003, the business was primarily focused on vanaspati, soap, and lighting within India. Today, it operates in over 60 countries across categories including personal care, home care, skin care, foods, lighting, and seating products.

Reflecting on his journey, Agrawal shared: “It has been a privilege to be part of Wipro for 40 years and to lead Consumer Care & Lighting over the last two decades. Together, we have built a global business rooted in strong systems, disciplined execution, and integrity. I am proud of the foundation we have laid and grateful for the opportunity to lead through a period of significant transformation.”

“Our journey has been shaped by Wipro’s long-term focus and commitment to building with purpose. I have full confidence in Kumar – his distinctive leadership style and global experience will guide Wipro to even greater heights,” he added.