Emami MD Harsha Vardhan Agarwal to lead FICCI as President in 2024-25

Emami Limited’s Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Harsha Vardhan Agarwal, has been appointed as the new President of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) for the term 2024-25. Agarwal, who currently serves as FICCI’s Senior Vice President, will assume the role after the industry body’s 97th Annual General Meeting, scheduled for November 21. He will take over from Anish Shah, Group CEO and Managing Director of Mahindra & Mahindra, who served as President in the previous year.

Agarwal, a second-generation leader at the Emami Group, has played a key role in advancing the company’s fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) business. Under his guidance, Emami Limited has significantly expanded its presence in the market, introducing new products and acquiring brands to solidify its standing in the FMCG sector. His vision and expertise in this space are expected to bring fresh insights to FICCI, which works to address issues and policies impacting Indian industry.

The Emami Group, founded by Agarwal's family, is a $3.1 billion conglomerate with diverse interests, including healthcare, personal care, and real estate. Emami’s flagship products, such as Navratna oil and Zandu balm, are popular across the country and have expanded the company’s market reach beyond India. In his capacity as Managing Director, Agarwal has been instrumental in navigating challenges in the FMCG space and enhancing the company's innovation and sustainability initiatives.

In his new role, Agarwal is likely to focus on strengthening industry collaboration and advocating for policies that support growth and sustainability within India’s industrial landscape. With ongoing economic reforms and policy changes, FICCI’s leadership has been active in representing businesses on various platforms, including the government, to encourage a favorable business environment.

The 97th FICCI Annual General Meeting, where Agarwal’s presidency will be formalized, is expected to draw leaders from various industries, discussing the future of Indian businesses, especially in the wake of global challenges and opportunities for the Indian economy. Agarwal’s extensive experience within the private sector is anticipated to guide FICCI’s initiatives, keeping in line with emerging trends and global best practices.

His tenure as FICCI president will bring Emami’s expertise to the forefront of India’s top industry body, impacting key initiatives in areas such as digital transformation, sustainability, and economic policies. The Indian business community will closely watch Agarwal's approach as he brings his experience in FMCG and corporate strategy to steer FICCI into the future.