Sony has a new Indian MD, a first for the company

Sunil Nayyar is the new Managing Director (MD) of Sony India, a bold move by Sony midst the rising competition in the tech world. He’s the first Indian to be appointed at such a post by the company.

In addition to this, Nayyar will also be joining the the managing committee of Sony Corp of America in San Diego.

Prior this this, Kenichoro Hibi was the MD of Sony India for six whole years, who will now be heading up Sony Brazil as President. Both these changes will come into effect on April 1.

On his appointment, Nayyar commented, “Being one of the most recognised consumer electronics brand, it is an exciting time to lead the company’s direction in India.”

Nayyar started his journey with Sony in 1995 as a part of their Gulf Sales Team that covered all of North and East Africa, Russia, Lebanon, Syria and other nations in the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).

He then came back to be the the Sales Head for Sony India from 2006 to 2015 after which he transferred over to Sony North America to head up their Retail Experience division. He held that position for three years, between 2015 and 2018.

So all in all, Sony's new MD is credited with building Sony's retail network to the extent that it is now and also with making India the company's 4th largest market.

Even Sony India regards this change as significant stating, “The change of guard marks a historic milestone, with Nayyar being the first Indian to be appointed as Managing Director for Sony India. In this new role, he will be responsible for spearheading the overall growth and profitability of the company within the region, by driving an integrated business and marketing strategy and directing excellence in market performance across all categories.”