Mumbai: Cosmo Films has elevated Pankaj Poddar as group CEO to head its newly launched consumer business Zigly, alongside trade verticals including films, labelling and packaging, specialty chemicals, ferrites, masterbatches, and textile chemicals. The development came into effect immediately and in recognition of the growth the company witnessed under Poddar’s leadership as CEO of the business.

With a career spanning over 26 years, Poddar has held key leadership positions in the company across business units and verticals. As the chief financial officer at Cosmo Films in 2011, he was responsible for managing the financial operations in India as well as overseas. Since his appointment as CEO in the year 2013, all verticals of Cosmo have witnessed year-on-year growth.  

"Poddar’s contribution is immense for the success of Cosmo as is visible in the last few years. R&D, sales and marketing competencies, expanded product range, and focus on specialty films have led to the achievement of record EBITDA and an all-time high market capitalisation," said Cosmo Films chairman and managing director Ashok Jaipuria. "All of these will make a significant addition to all the parameters of the company – top line, bottom line, and market valuations. He is a great asset to Cosmo with his focus, drive, and implementation bringing in benefits to the company and its stakeholders."

Poddar started his career with a seven-year stint at Ernst and Young before joining Reckitt Benckiser, Delphi Automotive, and Avon Beauty in senior financial positions. He is a regular speaker at packaging industry forums and sits on the board of Organisation of Plastic Processors of India, Plast India, and IFCA.

"At this point of time, Cosmo Films is at the pivotal state of its growth with diversification into different sectors," remarked Poddar. "Being a global leader in the films and packaging sector, we aim to be the preferred brand for specialty chemicals, ferrites, polymers, and pet care."