Philip Morris International’s India affiliate appoints Navaneel Kar as managing director

Philip Morris International (PMI), the maker of Marlboro cigarettes, has appointed Navaneel Kar as the managing director of its Indian operations, IPM India.

Kar, who has more than 25 years of experience, had stints with companies such as ITC and Tata Motors during which he teams and organisations across multiple categories and channels in food, tobacco, personal care and beverage sectors.

Prior to this role, he served as the president of sales at Tata Consumer Products. Kar will report to Ankur Modi, Cluster Head, South Asia & IndoChina, PMI.


IPM India is a joint venture between Philip Morris Brand Sarl of Switzerland and two Indian partners, Godfrey Phillips India Limited (GPI) and K.K. Modi Investment & Financial Services.

“Navaneel has displayed leadership & strength in delivering exceptional results through his career. His entrepreneurship and learning mindset will be central to bring the next phase of growth for our India business,” said Modi, in a statement.

Kar said, “I look forward to working with the team to deliver competitive performance along with building and inclusive, diverse & progressive workplace.”