Mahindra North America (MNA) announced that Mr. Viren Popli has been appointed as the President & CEO (designate). Popli will report to Rajesh Jejurikar, President of Farm Equipment Sector Mahindra & Mahindra Limited and Board Member of Mahindra USA, who will oversee the business during the transition. Viren Popli succeeds Mr. Mani Iyer who has expressed his desire to explore new opportunities.

“We would like to thank Mani for his contribution to Mahindra,” Jejurikar stated. “Mani was instrumental in the growth story of the business and building the Mahindra brand across North America and we wish him success in his future endeavors.”

Popli has been with the Mahindra Group since 2009 and brings with him decades of experience, leading multinational organizations and businesses. Most recently, Popli served as the Chief Operating Officer (COO) for the Swaraj Tractor Division in Farm Equipment Sector of Mahindra & Mahindra Limited. Prior to that, he was Chief of Operations of Mahindra Two Wheelers Limited.

“Viren brings with him a rich experience and understanding of the tractor and implements business,” said Rajesh Jejurikar. “He takes over Mahindra North America at a very exciting time for the business. Our tractor brand has seen significant growth in the U.S. and we believe that through his visionary and inspiring leadership, Viren will lead MNA to even greater heights.”

“This opens a new chapter for Mahindra North America as Viren brings fresh experiences and ideas to continue the company’s expansion of the tractor and utility vehicle business,” said Mani Iyer. “Mahindra is in solid hands as it moves forward.”

Prior to his time at Mahindra, Popli spent 10 years at Star TV India Limited (a part of News Corporation). He also spent six years at the pharmaceutical company, Ranbaxy Laboratories Limited as Country Manager. Popli earned an MBA and a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering. Viren is the Vice Chairman at the Confederation of Indian Industry (Punjab Council), Member of the Governing Council of Tractor and Mechanisation Association of India and a Member of the Board of Directors of Gromax Agri Equipment Limited.