Praveen Someshwar
President, Diageo India, Member, Diageo Global Executive Committee, MD & CEO, United Spirits Ltd (USL).
View LinkedIn ProfileExecutive Overview
Over three decades in the corporate world, I’ve had the privilege of leading high-performing, talented teams, scaling global operations, and driving growth across diverse markets & industries. I see leadership as a blend of purpose, discipline, adaptability, and a grounded sense of self, and it’s a journey I’m still mastering. A few beliefs which keep me spirited & grounded: - I’m a lifelong learner, not just from books or boardrooms, but through travel, new experiences, and the ongoing adventure of raising my daughter (a daily masterclass in patience and persuasion). - Routine keeps me centered. I’ll do the reps, honour the calendar, and show up where it matters, while letting AI automate the easy part of my life. - Discipline and efficiency go hand-in-hand, as does knowing when to pause, step back, and make space for ideas that don’t fit neatly into spreadsheets. - What truly energizes me is building people, not just businesses. Mentoring, unlocking potential, and shaping cultures where people feel trusted, heard, and challenged are my greatest rewards. I’ve learned that relationships compound like revenue, often outlasting org charts. I believe every organization needs room - in calendars and culture - to dream, reflect, and challenge the status quo. Because real progress rarely comes from following the past or any manual. As a leader, I am still learning, still listening. I may not have all the answers, but I believe the best way forward is to figure it out, TOGETHER.
Career Timeline
- DIAGEO IndiaCurrentMar 2025–Present· 1 yr 6 mos
- Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer, United Spirits Limited, Member of Global Diageo Executive CommitteeCurrentMar 2025–Present
- Aug 2018–Feb 2025· 6 yrs 6 mos
- MD & CEOAug 2018–Feb 2025
- Mar 2014–Aug 2018· 4 yrs 5 mos
- Senior Vice President & GM .. NAPIMMar 2014–Aug 2018
- Apr 1994–2014· 19 yrs 9 mos
- CEO India Foods2012–2014
- CEO South Asia Beverages2009–2012
- Chief Financial Officer , South AsiaJun 2007–2009
- Strategy and Planning Director , South AsiaJul 2005–Sep 2007
- GMs of South , Central and West IndiaSep 1999–Jun 2005
- Manager, FinanceApr 1994–Sep 1999
- Dec 1991–Mar 1994· 2 yrs 3 mos
- Business Accounts ManagerDec 1991–Mar 1994
- Aug 1988–Sep 1991· 3 yrs 1 mo
- Article with AF FergusonAug 1988–Sep 1991
Education
Chartered Accountant & Cost Accountant
CA/ICWAB.Com Hons
Business/Commerce, General
Delhi University