Cohance Lifesciences Limited has announced the appointment of Umang Vohra as Executive Chairman, effective May 1, 2026, and Group Chief Executive Officer, effective May 20, 2026. The leadership transition marks a significant step in the company’s next phase of growth and strategic evolution.
Mr Vohra succeeds Vivek Sharma, who is stepping down from his role as Executive Chairman for personal reasons. Mr Sharma will remain associated with the organization as an advisor for the next nine months to ensure continuity and a smooth handover of responsibilities.
The appointment reflects a strategic decision by the Board to bring in a leader with extensive global experience and a strong track record in managing complex pharmaceutical businesses. Cohance Lifesciences operates as a technology-led, integrated contract development and manufacturing organization (CDMO), with capabilities spanning complex chemistry, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), oligonucleotides, advanced active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs), and performance materials.
Backed by a strong scientific foundation, the company operates multiple research and development centres supported by a team of more than 400 scientists. Its expertise in multi-step synthesis, high-potency APIs, and advanced process development has enabled collaborations with leading global pharmaceutical innovators across regulated markets.
Mr Vohra brings over three decades of leadership experience in the pharmaceutical industry. Most recently, he served as Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director of Cipla Limited, where he led a decade-long transformation to build a diversified global enterprise. His experience includes steering large-scale operations, strengthening customer focus, and driving operational excellence across international markets.
Commenting on his appointment, Mr Vohra expressed confidence in the company’s long-term potential, highlighting its strong technology base, research capabilities, and leadership team. He noted his intention to work closely with the management to create sustainable value for customers, employees, and shareholders.
Outgoing Executive Chairman Vivek Sharma stated that the company has established a solid platform in recent years through business integration, leadership development, and a clear focus on science-led growth. He expressed confidence in the organization’s future direction under new leadership. Pankaj Patwari, Managing Director at Advent International, welcomed the appointment, emphasizing Vohra’s ability to scale businesses, deepen partnerships, and strengthen organizational culture.
Cohance Lifesciences Limited is a technology-led, integrated CDMO platform that provides end-to-end development and manufacturing solutions across complex APIs, performance materials, agrochemicals, ADCs, oligonucleotides, and other advanced chemistries for global pharmaceutical and life sciences clients. Its expertise spans multi-step synthesis, high-potency APIs, controlled substances, flow chemistry, and continuous manufacturing, enabling it to support leading innovator and generic pharmaceutical companies across regulated markets worldwide. Cohance is publicly listed on India’s BSE and NSE and is majority owned by Advent.
