Ashish Gupta and Nitin Kohli to lead Skoda and Volkswagen India as Brand Directors

Time of India

05-05-2025

In a strategic move aimed at reshaping and strengthening the brand presence in the Indian automotive market,
Škoda Auto Volkswagen India
Private Limited (SAVWIPL) have announced key leadership changes w.e.f May 1, 2025.
It is learnt that
Ashish Gupta
, who currently serves as the Brand Director for Volkswagen Passenger Cars India, will now take over the same role at
Skoda India
. On the other hand,
Nitin Kohli
will succeed Ashish Gupta as the new Brand Director for
Volkswagen India
. Kohli currently heads the Sales Operations and Network Development at Audi India.
Ashish Gupta's experience
In his new position, Ashish Gupta replaces Peter Janeba, who held the position for the past 16 months. Gupta brings over 25 years of experience in the automotive industry and has been associated with the Volkswagen brand for more than eight years. During his tenure, he has overseen various functions, including sales, marketing, dealer network expansion, aftersales services, and customer experience enhancement. His leadership has been instrumental in growing the brand's pre-owned car business and strengthening corporate sales channels.
Nitin Kohli's professional path
Kohli brings with him over 25 years of experience across diverse segments ranging from tractors to luxury cars, having contributed to companies like TAFE, Tata Motors, and Audi India.
His expertise spans strategic planning, sales operations, client relationship management, negotiation, business development, people development, and cross-functional collaboration. These skills are expected to play a vital role in driving Volkswagen's growth and reinforcing its brand identity in India.
Piyush Arora, CEO & Managing Director, SAVWIPL, said, 'The changes in leadership reflects our continued commitment to localisation and development of capabilities within our Indian organisation. Empowering strong Indian leaders remains a core element of our growth strategy, ensuring we stay agile, relevant, and better aligned with the evolving needs of our customers and the business environment. With their deep market insight and strategic acumen, Ashish and Nitin are ideally positioned to lead brands Škoda and Volkswagen into the next phase of growth in India. At the same time, I would like to thank Mr. Petr Janeba for his valuable contribution during his time with SAVWIPL and wish him all the best in his future role.'
Jan Bures, Board Member and Executive Director, Sales, Marketing & Digital, SAVWIPL, said, 'Ashish and Nitin have consistently delivered impact with agility and customer-centric thinking. Their appointment is not just a leadership change—it signals a broader shift in how we are building resilient, future-ready teams from within India. We are confident that both Ashish and Nitin will bring renewed energy and direction to the India journey of brands Škoda and Volkswagen.'