Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd (ABFRL) has announced a series of leadership changes as part of a structured succession framework. The company’s board approved the appointment of Nikhil Modha as Chief Financial Officer (designate).
It also named new leadership for key business verticals, including Pantaloons and OWND!. The changes are aimed at ensuring continuity, stability, and alignment across senior management roles.
Nikhil Modha will assume the role of CFO (designate) and senior managerial personnel from April 1, 2026. He is scheduled to take over as Chief Financial Officer and key managerial personnel with effect from January 1, 2027.
The phased transition allows for alignment with ongoing financial planning and reporting cycles. The company disclosed the appointment and transition structure through an official exchange filing.
Jagdish Bajaj, the current Chief Financial Officer, will continue in his role until December 31, 2026. During this period, he will oversee financial operations and support the transition process.
He will retire at the end of the year and cease to hold the position of CFO thereafter. His continued tenure is intended to ensure continuity and facilitate an orderly transfer of responsibilities.
Suraj Bahirwani has been appointed as CEO (designate) of Pantaloons with effect from April 1, 2026. He will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer from October 1, 2026, following a transition period.
Current CEO Sangeeta Tanwani will continue in her role until September 30, 2026. She will then move into an advisory position to the managing director until her retirement on January 31, 2027.
Marco Agnolin has been appointed as CEO of OWND! and senior managerial personnel, effective April 6, 2026. This appointment is part of the company’s broader efforts to strengthen leadership across its business segments.
The move is aligned with ABFRL’s strategy to enhance operational focus in emerging categories. It also reflects the company’s intent to build dedicated leadership for specific brands.
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The leadership changes at ABFRL reflect a structured and phased succession plan across key managerial positions. The appointments of designate roles indicate a planned approach to leadership transition and continuity.
Defined timelines for each transition are intended to minimise disruption and ensure operational stability. These developments highlight the company’s focus on maintaining governance standards and organisational alignment.
Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. This does not constitute a personal recommendation/investment advice. It does not aim to influence any individual or entity to make investment decisions. Recipients should conduct their own research and assessments to form an independent opinion about investment decisions.
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Published on: Mar 24, 2026, 1:45 PM IST
Akshay Shivalkar
Akshay Shivalkar is a financial content specialist who strategises and creates SEO-optimised content on the stock market, mutual funds, and other investment products. With experience in fintech and mutual funds, he simplifies complex financial concepts to help investors make informed decisions through his writing.
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