PUMA Appoints Ramprasad Sridharan as New Managing Director for India

PUMA, one of the world’s leading sportswear brands, has announced the appointment of Ramprasad Sridharan as the new Managing Director for its India operations, effective December 2025. With this leadership transition, PUMA aims to strengthen its market position and accelerate brand and digital transformation across India.

Sridharan will report directly to Matthias Bäumer, PUMA’s Chief Commercial Officer. He succeeds Karthik Balagopalan, who has stepped down to pursue new opportunities outside the company.

Retail Leadership Experience Spanning 25+ Years

Ramprasad Sridharan brings with him over 25 years of experience in the retail and brand management sector. Known for his sharp strategic acumen and growth-focused leadership, he has held high-impact roles across Asia Pacific with expertise in,

• Brand transformation and digital expansion
• Consumer-centric commercial strategy
• Retail operations and leadership alignment

Most recently, Sridharan served as the CEO and Managing Director of United Colors of Benetton India, where he led the brand through extensive transformation initiatives, including modernization of its retail footprint and digital channels.

He has also held senior leadership positions at,

• Clarks – overseeing India retail operations
• Reebok India – contributing to the brand’s growth and retail consolidation

Strategic Vision for PUMA India

PUMA, which enjoys a strong presence in India’s sportswear and lifestyle segments, is focused on strengthening its omnichannel retail strategy, expanding its e-commerce footprint, and building deeper consumer connections in the country.

With India emerging as one of the fastest-growing markets for global apparel and footwear brands, Sridharan’s appointment is expected to drive,

• Expansion of retail stores and brand touchpoints
• Acceleration of digital commerce and innovation
• Local market engagement through sports and youth-centric campaigns
• Strategic talent development within PUMA India’s leadership team

Static Facts

• New MD of PUMA India: Ramprasad Sridharan
• Effective From: December 2025
• Predecessor: Karthik Balagopalan
• Reporting To: Matthias Bäumer, Chief Commercial Officer, PUMA