Greaves Cotton Limited has announced a leadership transition at the top of its finance function, appointing Manish Poddar as Group Chief Financial Officer with effect from 19 March 2026, following the resignation of Akhila Balachandar from the same role. The board approved the appointment at its meeting, marking a deliberate step to bolster the company’s financial leadership as it pursues growth and operational discipline across its businesses.
Akhila Balachandar submitted her resignation on 19 February 2026, citing personal reasons and other priorities, with the resignation effective 19 March 2026. The move opens the door for Greaves to synchronize its financial stewardship with a leader who has broad experience in finance, governance and strategic partnering, and signals a measured, orderly transition in a crucial executive slot.
Manish Poddar brings more than 25 years of experience in finance, treasury, investor relations, governance and strategic business partnering. He has served as Chief Financial Officer of GMM Pfaudler Limited and GreenCell Mobility Private Limited, and has held senior finance leadership roles at Diversey India Hygiene Private Limited, Ranbaxy/Sun Pharmaceutical Industries Limited and Louis Dreyfus India Limited. He is a Chartered Accountant, holds an Executive MBA (Finance) and has a Bachelor’s degree from the University of Delhi.
Greaves’ leadership realignment underscores its focus on strengthening financial governance and execution as it advances its strategic priorities. Poddar’s track record across manufacturing, mobility and consumer-focused sectors positions the group to navigate capital allocation, risk management and performance analytics with a seasoned lens, while the organization ensures a smooth handover backed by its governance framework.