Gurpratap Boparai, the CEO of Automotive Businesses Europe and CEO of Mahindra Trucks and Buses, has tendered his resignation from Mahindra & Mahindra. Boparai has chosen to explore opportunities beyond the Mahindra Group, with his last working day slated for May 31, 2024.
Boparai, who joined Mahindra & Mahindra in 2022, played a pivotal role in spearheading the company’s European operations, overseeing Peugeot Motors and Automobili Pininfarina. His departure marks a significant transition within the organization. An internal circular from the company highlighted Boparai’s contributions, particularly in the Mahindra Truck and Bus Division and Construction Equipment, including driving divestment activities at Peugeot Motors and overseeing Automobili Pininfarina.
In light of Boparai’s resignation, Vinod Sahay, currently President of Aerospace and Defence and Chief Purchase Officer for Auto and Farm Sectors (AFS), will assume additional responsibilities. Sahay will be designated as President and Chief Purchase Officer (CPO) for AFS and President for Aerospace and Defence, Mahindra Truck and Bus Division, and Construction Equipment effective June 1, 2024.
The restructuring will also align the manufacturing and supply chain functions for Mahindra Truck and Bus Division and Construction Equipment under Vinod’s leadership, with Jalaj Gupta, Business Head for MTBD and CE, reporting to him. Rajeev Goyal, Chief Finance Officer for AFS, will oversee the transition of the Automobili Pininfarina business from Boparai.
The company emphasized that the detailed organizational structure will be announced separately. Sahay will report to Dr. Anish Shah, Group CEO and MD, Mahindra Group, for Aerospace and Defence, and to Rajesh Jejurikar, Executive Director of Mahindra & Mahindra, for his responsibilities related to CPO of AFS, MTBD, and CE. Before joining Mahindra & Mahindra,
Boparai held significant roles in the automotive industry, including laying the foundation stone for critical ventures at Skoda Auto Volkswagen India and serving as CEO of Tata Motors and Fiat India Limited’s joint venture.
Vinod Sahay, with his extensive experience, particularly in the commercial vehicle market, is well-positioned to take on the additional responsibilities. His tenure at Mahindra since 2015 has been marked by notable achievements, including his role as CEO of Mahindra Two Wheelers Business.
Sahay’s leadership in the Aerospace and Defence sectors aligns with Mahindra’s strategic objectives of bolstering India’s self-reliance in collaboration with the Ministry of Defence. His expertise in procurement and commercial operations is expected to drive further growth and efficiency within the organization.
