MUMBAI: Samsonite International S.A., world’s largest manufacturer and leading luggage brand for more than 100 years, today announced the appointment of Mr. Ramesh Tainwala as Chief Operating Officer with immediate effect. In his new role, Mr. Tainwala will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the business of the company globally and continue to be directly involved in the management of the company’s business in China, Philippines and Australia. Mr. Leo Boo Suk Suh will be taking over from Mr. Tainwala as President, Samsonite Asia and Middle East.

Mr. Ramesh Tainwala, COO, Samsonite International S.A, said ““I am delighted to take on my new role at a time when increasing number of people are traveling and every market across the world presents interesting challenges. In this backdrop, I hope I will be able to strengthen Samsonite’s leadership position globally.”

Mr.Tainwala served as Executive Director and President, Asia-Pacific and Middle East of Samsonite International SA since February 10, 2011. In his role as President, Mr. Tainwala’s principal responsibility was to manage and develop the Group’s business in Asia Pacific. The responsibilities of this role included the Group’s manufacturing operations in India as well as marketing and sales in the Middle East, West Asia and Australia. Mr. Tainwala has been the General Manager of the Group’s Middle Eastern Operation since January 2007 and has been the chief operating officer of the Group’s Indian operation since June 2000.