In a strategic leadership shift, Bata Group has announced the appointment of Panos Mytaros as its new Global Chief Executive Officer, effective September 15, 2025. Mytaros, a seasoned executive with more than three decades of experience in the global footwear and leather industry, succeeds Sandeep Kataria, the first Indian to lead the Switzerland-based multinational. Kataria’s tenure was marked by sweeping transformations, including digital acceleration and market expansion. The leadership change signals Bata’s intent to strengthen its global brand and retail operations, with a focus on innovation and craftsmanship as it positions itself for the next phase of growth.
Leadership Transition at Bata Group
Bata Group, one of the world’s largest and oldest footwear companies, has announced a major change at the helm. The company has appointed Panos Mytaros as its new Global CEO, marking a significant move in its ongoing strategic realignment. Mytaros will assume the role starting September 15, 2025, succeeding Sandeep Kataria, who has led the company through a transformative and tumultuous period in global retail.
Kataria, who took over as Global CEO in 2020, made history as the first Indian to lead the Swiss-headquartered multinational. He joined Bata in 2017 and initially oversaw its India operations, a crucial market for the brand.
Sandeep Kataria’s Transformative Tenure
During his time at the helm, Kataria steered Bata through the severe disruptions brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and a rapidly shifting retail landscape. Under his leadership, the company:
- Accelerated its digital transformation strategy
- Streamlined global operations
- Entered new international markets
- Modernized supply chains and retail formats
- Laid robust foundations for long-term growth
A company statement acknowledged Kataria’s substantial contributions, noting that his efforts helped redefine Bata’s global footprint and future readiness. His exit comes as part of a well-structured succession plan, ensuring continuity in the company’s vision and values.
Introducing Panos Mytaros: A Veteran in Footwear Leadership
Panos Mytaros brings over 30 years of industry experience to the role, having held senior leadership positions across multiple verticals in the global footwear space. His most recent position was CEO of ECCO, a premium Danish footwear brand, where he served from 2021 to 2024. At ECCO, Mytaros was credited with expanding global market share, enhancing product design capabilities, and integrating advanced manufacturing techniques.
Graham Allan, Chairman of the Bata Group, welcomed Mytaros with high expectations. “Panos is a proven leader with deep industry knowledge and a passion for footwear craftsmanship,” he said. “His record in brand building and managing complex international businesses makes him the ideal leader to guide Bata into its next growth chapter.”
Bata’s Stronghold in the Indian Market
While Bata is a global company with operations across five continents, its largest and most vital market remains India. The brand commands a dominant presence in the Indian footwear retail space, operating a network of more than 1,900 stores across the country. Its diverse product portfolio caters to a wide demographic, making it a household name in Indian retail.
Kataria’s earlier role in India is seen as a pivotal phase in consolidating Bata’s market leadership, setting the stage for deeper retail penetration and consumer engagement.
Looking Ahead: A New Phase for a Heritage Brand
With Mytaros taking charge later this year, industry observers anticipate a renewed focus on global brand cohesion, supply chain innovation, and product craftsmanship. His appointment underscores Bata’s ambition to elevate its global brand profile while remaining anchored in the values of durability, affordability, and accessibility that have defined the brand for over a century.
This leadership transition is more than a routine corporate change—it’s a strategic recalibration, aligning the company with the evolving expectations of global consumers, especially in an industry where brand loyalty, technological innovation, and retail experience are increasingly interlinked.
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