Kolkata-based diversified conglomerate ITC Ltd has re-designated Executive Director Sanjiv Puri as the Chief Operating Officer of the company with immediate effect.

The 53-year old Mr. Puri was brought on ITC’s Board in December 2015 in a move that was seen as part of Chairman Y. C. Deveshwar’s succession– planning. Mr. Deveshwar is stepping down as Executive Chairman of ITC in February next year, after an over two-decade stint as Chairman. He will continue as Non-Executive Chairman for at least three years thereafter.

• Puri, is now Director-in-Charge of FMCG, paperboards, paper and packaging businesses — contributing 90 per cent of turnover and profit before tax.

• Prior to his appointment as Director, he was President of the FMCG businesses since December 2014. In addition, he has been closely involved with the tobacco division, ITC Infotech, and ITA Surya Nepal with which he was associated for five years.

• Mr. Puri became Divisional Chief Executive of the Tobacco Division in 2009, handling additionally the charge of ITC’s Trade Marketing and Distribution function. He led ITC Infotech India Ltd., a wholly owned subsidiary, as its Managing Director between May 2006 and August 2009.

• Between 2009 and 2014, he oversaw operations of the tobacco division that alone contributes 80 per cent of the profits.

  In 2014, Puri was elevated to President of the entire FMCG business, including cigarette and the widening portfolio of other FMCG products.