Hikal Limited has unveiled a leadership reshuffle that signals a careful handover of the reins while preserving its long-standing founder’s counsel. On October 1, 2026, the board announced the cessation of Jai Hiremath’s term as Executive Chairman, a role he has occupied since the company’s inception. In a nod to continuity and guidance, the board bestowed upon him the honorary title of Chairman Emeritus for five years, with the understanding that he will not serve as a Director, officer, or member of any Board committee, but will remain available as a strategic adviser when appropriate.
In another departure, Sugandha Hiremath resigned from her position as Non-Executive Director, effective at the close of business on September 30, 2026, after a tenure spanning three decades since 1992. The board acknowledged her significant contributions to governance and growth and expressed gratitude for her long association with the company. Her exit also means she will cease membership in the board’s Audit, Stakeholders’ Relationship, and Corporate Social Responsibility committees from the same date.
Adding to the leadership transition, the board approved the appointment of Anish Swadi as CEO – Animal Health and Specialty Ingredients, a Senior Management position, effective October 1, 2026. Swadi has been with Hikal since October 1, 2021, serving as Senior President – Business Transformation & Animal Health, where he led strategic initiatives to strengthen execution and organizational effectiveness. He holds a background in international business and finance from Ithaca College, New York, and will bring his transformation experience to the Company’s key Animal Health portfolio.
Taken together, the changes place a renewed emphasis on governance continuity and strategic execution as Hikal pursues growth in its core Animal Health and Specialty Ingredients segment. Jai Hiremath’s transition to Chairman Emeritus preserves access to his counsel, while Anish Swadi’s ascension to CEO signals a focus on sustained strategic transformation under an internal leadership team, complemented by a board that has seen a long-serving Director in Sugandha Hiremath step aside after decades of service.