Nissan Strengthens India Leadership, Appoints Thierry Sabbagh as President

In a significant leadership move aimed at accelerating its turnaround strategy, Nissan has announced the expansion of responsibilities of Thierry Sabbagh, appointing him as President for India in addition to his existing regional role. The decision, effective 1 January 2026, is part of a broader reshuffle in Nissan’s Africa, Middle East, India, Europe and Oceania (AMIEO) region to strengthen execution of its Re Nissan transformation plan. The move underlines the growing strategic importance of India in Nissan’s global growth ambitions.

Why in the news?

Nissan has appointed Thierry Sabbagh as President for India, effective 1 January 2026, expanding his role in the AMIEO region under the Re:Nissan transformation plan.

Expanded Role of Thierry Sabbagh

With the new appointment, Thierry Sabbagh becomes Divisional Vice President and President, Middle East, KSA, CIS and India – Nissan and Infiniti. His expanded mandate now includes direct oversight of Nissan’s India operations, placing the country firmly within Nissan’s priority markets.

According to the company, this leadership restructuring is aimed at improving operational efficiency, decision-making speed and customer focus, key pillars of the Re Nissan plan designed to restore profitability and competitiveness.

India’s Strategic Importance for Nissan

India is expected to play a central role in Nissan’s resurgence in 2026. The company has announced plans to introduce three new models within the next 14–16 months, signalling renewed product momentum in the Indian market.

The upcoming models include GRAVITE, TEKTON, and a 7-seater C-SUV, catering to fast-growing segments such as compact SUVs and family vehicles. These launches are aligned with evolving consumer preferences and intensifying competition in India’s automobile sector.

Re Nissan Transformation Plan

The leadership changes are part of Nissan’s broader Re Nissan transformation plan, which focuses on,

• Streamlining operations
• Strengthening regional accountability
• Accelerating product launches
• Enhancing customer-centricity

By placing India under a senior regional leader with extensive experience, Nissan aims to fast-track decision-making and improve market responsiveness.

Key Summary At Glance

Question

Q. Who has been appointed as President of Nissan India in January 2026?

A. Makoto Uchida
B. Thierry Sabbagh
C. Carlos Ghosn
D. Rakesh Srivastava