Hardeep Singh Brar to Lead BMW Group India as New President and CEO

BMW Group India has appointed veteran automotive leader Hardeep Singh Brar as its new President and CEO. With a rich background across some of the biggest auto brands in India, Brar is set to begin his new role from 1 September 2025, marking a significant new chapter for the German luxury brand in one of its fastest growing markets.

BMW Group India has announced the appointment of Hardeep Singh Brar as its next President and CEO, effective from the first of September 2025. Brar takes over from Vikram Pawah, who will now assume the role of Chief Executive Officer at BMW Group Australia and New Zealand. The move signals a strategic transition within the company’s Asia Pacific leadership structure and underlines the importance of India in BMW’s long term regional plans.

Brar’s appointment is not just a change in leadership. It represents the arrival of one of the most seasoned automotive professionals in the Indian market at the helm of a global luxury brand. With over three decades of experience, Brar has held senior positions at nearly every major automobile company in India. His leadership journey spans across Maruti Suzuki, General Motors, Nissan, Volkswagen, and most recently Kia India, where he served as Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing. His expertise covers a full spectrum of business verticals including marketing, sales, customer experience, strategy, and network development.

The announcement follows Brar’s recent exit from Kia India, a brand he helped strengthen in the Indian market with aggressive growth strategies and customer centric marketing. At Kia, he was widely credited for enhancing market share, improving brand recall, and developing a strong dealer network. His understanding of consumer preferences and his sharp market instinct are expected to bring a fresh perspective to BMW’s strategy in India.

India has rapidly emerged as a key growth market for global automobile brands and BMW has consistently positioned itself as a strong contender in the premium car segment. The company’s current momentum includes a growing demand for luxury cars, a robust product portfolio, and increasing interest in sustainable mobility solutions. With Brar’s appointment, BMW is looking to further solidify its presence in India and deepen its engagement with Indian consumers.

Jean Philippe Parain, Senior Vice President for Region Asia Pacific, Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa at BMW Group, shared the company's confidence in the new leadership. He noted that Brar’s deep industry knowledge and understanding of the Indian market will be instrumental in driving growth and reinforcing the brand’s leadership position. He also expressed gratitude to Vikram Pawah for his strategic contributions that have helped shape BMW’s success in the country.

For Hardeep Singh Brar, the role presents both a challenge and an opportunity. BMW is navigating a dynamic landscape that includes shifting consumer behavior, rising competition, digital transformation, and a growing emphasis on electric vehicles. Steering the brand through these changes will require both vision and adaptability.

The appointment of Brar marks an exciting new phase for BMW Group India. With his proven track record and industry insight, the company is poised to push forward with greater confidence in one of the most promising markets in Asia.

To stay updated on leadership shifts and brand strategy developments from across the world of marketing and automotive, follow Marketing Moves on Instagram and Facebook.