MUMBAI: Praveen Someshwar is no stranger to transformation. After steering HT Media Group through a period of digital reinvention and AI-powered journalism, he is now shifting gears—this time to the world of premium spirits. Diageo India has appointed him as its new managing director & CEO, a move that signals an exciting new chapter for both Someshwar and the country’s leading beverage company.
After six and a half years at HT Media, where he spearheaded the digital-first evolution of iconic brands like Hindustan Times, Mint, and Fever Network, Someshwar is now set to bring his sharp business acumen to Diageo India. Under his leadership, HT Media embraced AI-driven journalism, expanded its digital footprint, and built a robust ecosystem blending print, OTT, podcasts, and video. His tenure saw the integration of 400+ engineers, product specialists, and designers working alongside 3,000+ journalists, transforming the organisation into a tech-savvy media powerhouse.
Someshwar himself reflected on his HT journey with a heartfelt farewell on Linkedin, saying, “Transforming a traditional media powerhouse into a digital-first, tech-driven organisation was no small task. And yet, what I witnessed over the years was nothing short of extraordinary.”
At Diageo India, Someshwar steps into the shoes of Hina Nagarajan, who moves into a global role. His appointment comes at a crucial time when the premiumisation of the beverage sector, digital innovation, and market expansion are at the forefront of Diageo’s strategy. Someshwar’s career has been a masterclass in reinvention. From leading PepsiCo’s India and Asia operations to redefining media with HT’s tech-driven expansion, he has consistently pushed boundaries. At Diageo India, he now faces a new challenge—bringing the same strategic foresight to a dynamic, fast-evolving beverage industry.
His new role will focus on strengthening Diageo’s market dominance with a digital-first approach, enhancing consumer engagement through AI-driven insights, and driving premiumisation in India’s evolving spirits market.
With India’s premium beverage market booming and digital innovation reshaping consumer experiences, his leadership could redefine the future of premium spirits in India.
