Ashish Gupta to Lead Škoda India; Nitin Kohli Appointed Volkswagen Brand Director

Škoda Auto Volkswagen India Private Limited (SAVWIPL) has announced a significant leadership transition, with Ashish Gupta set to take over as Brand Director of Škoda India, effective May 1, 2025. Gupta, who currently serves as Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars, will succeed Petr Janeba, who returns to Škoda Auto in the Czech Republic. In a parallel move, Nitin Kohli, who currently oversees Sales and Operations at Audi India, will assume the position of Brand Director of Volkswagen Passenger Cars. 

Piyush Arora, CEO & Managing Director, SAVWIPL, said, “With their deep market insight and strategic acumen, Ashish and Nitin are ideally positioned to lead brands Škoda and Volkswagen into the next phase of growth in India. At the same time, I would like to thank Mr. Petr Janeba for his valuable contribution during his time with SAVWIPL and wish him all the best in his future role.”

With over 20 years of automotive experience, Ashish Gupta has spent more than 12 years within the Volkswagen Group, including five years leading the Volkswagen brand in India. His new mandate at Škoda will include steering the brand’s growth trajectory, strengthening customer relationships, expanding the dealer network, and enhancing brand resonance in the Indian market.

On the other hand, Kohli brings over 25 years of experience in automotive sales and business development, including more than a decade with SAVWIPL. His experience spans strategic planning, dealer relations, and cross-functional leadership.