Global Sportswear Giant PUMA has appointed retail industry Veteran Ramprasad Sridharan as Managing Director of PUMA India, effective December 2025. Sridharan succeeds Karthik Balagopalan, who is stepping down after two decades with the company to pursue new opportunities. The move is part of PUMA’s broader strategy to strengthen its leadership team in one of the brand’s fastest-growing markets.

In his new role, Sridharan will report directly to Matthias Bäumer, PUMA’s Chief Commercial Officer. The company announced that his appointment reflects PUMA’s commitment to deepening its presence in India, a market that has shown remarkable growth in recent years thanks to strong demand for athleisure and performance wear.

With over 25 years of experience across key retail and apparel markets, Sridharan brings a wealth of strategic and operational expertise. Before joining PUMA, he served as CEO and Managing Director of United Colors of Benetton India, where he led major digital expansion initiatives and strengthened the brand’s retail footprint. His career also includes leadership positions at Clarks and Reebok India, where he worked extensively on brand transformation and organizational growth.

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Commenting on the appointment, Matthias Bäumer said, “Ram is a highly experienced leader with a deep understanding of fashion and footwear retail. His expertise in commercial strategy and organizational development will be instrumental in driving PUMA’s next phase of growth in India.” He added that Sridharan’s leadership will help translate PUMA’s global strategic priorities into tangible regional success.

Bäumer also acknowledged the contributions of outgoing MD Karthik Balagopalan, praising his long-standing service and leadership during a transformative phase for PUMA India. Balagopalan played a key role in expanding the brand’s retail network and establishing PUMA as a dominant player in the Indian sportswear market.

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