|
|
|
You can get e-magazine links on WhatsApp. Click here
|
|
|
|
|
|
Devyani International appoints Manish Dawar as CEO ahead of proposed Sapphire Foods merger
|
|
Saturday, 07 February, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
|
|
Our Bureau, Mumbai
|
Devyani International Ltd., the Indian operator of iconic quick-service restaurant (QSR) brands such as KFC, Pizza Hut and Costa Coffee, has appointed its long-time Chief Financial Officer Manish Dawar as president & chief executive officer, effective 1 April 2026, ahead of its proposed merger with Sapphire Foods India.
The leadership change marks a significant strategic shift as Devyani prepares to integrate operations with rival franchisee Sapphire Foods — a move that is expected to create one of the largest Yum! Brands operators in India and overseas. The merger, which is subject to customary regulatory approvals, is anticipated to generate scale, operational synergies and tighter control over technology and supply chain functions.
Dawar, who has served as Devyani’s CFO and whole-time director, succeeds Virag Joshi, who will step down from executive duties but remain on the board as a non-executive director to provide strategic guidance during the transition. In his new role, Dawar will lead the company through this pivotal phase and oversee efforts to strengthen performance across the restaurant portfolio.
As part of the leadership reorganisation, Anupam Kumar, currently executive vice-president Finance, will assume the role of chief financial officer, while Neeraj Tiwari has been appointed chief technology officer, highlighting Devyani’s push towards a digital-first model in the competitive QSR industry. Additional management appointments are expected to be announced as the merger progresses.
Industry observers note that Dawar’s deep experience which includes leadership roles across several sectors and a strategic role in Devyani’s growth initiatives positions him to steer the combined entity toward greater operational alignment, especially as Pizza Hut and other segments navigate evolving consumer trends.
The leadership transition and merger plans come against a backdrop of ongoing efforts by Devyani to optimise store portfolios, elevate technology capabilities, and capitalise on synergies that could yield enhanced value for shareholders and stakeholders alike in India’s fast-moving food services landscape.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|