In a major leadership shake-up, beauty retail powerhouse Quest Retail has elevated Shriti Malhotra to Executive Chairperson and appointed Rahul Shanker as the new Group CEO, the company announced on Friday.
Shanker to Spearhead Operations Across a Global Beauty Empire
Taking over the reins from Malhotra, Rahul Shanker will now lead operations for Quest Retail’s expansive portfolio, which includes some of the most recognized beauty brands in the world—The Body Shop, Kiehl’s, Avon, Kylie Cosmetics, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Max Factor, Boddess, The Honest Tree, and more.
Shriti Malhotra Transitions to Executive Chairperson Role
After years of driving Quest Retail’s rapid expansion as Group CEO, Shriti Malhotra moves into the role of Executive Chairperson, where she will focus on long-term strategic planning and corporate vision. Her leadership has been instrumental in cementing Quest Retail’s dominance in India’s $30 billion beauty and personal care market, pioneering new retail models, and expanding the company’s brand portfolio.
Reflecting on her journey, Malhotra stated, “The strength of Quest Retail has always been its passionate people. Leading this company has been an incredible privilege, and I am excited to see Rahul take the helm. His deep expertise in consumer businesses and transformative leadership style make him the perfect choice to steer Quest Retail into its next phase of growth.”
A Retail Powerhouse with a Track Record of Success
Malhotra is widely regarded as a trailblazer in the Indian retail space. Over the last three decades, she has played a pivotal role in scaling global brands like Nike, Puma, and Benetton in India. Nearly two decades ago, she was responsible for bringing The Body Shop to the Indian market, driving its massive success through bold retail innovations and deep customer engagement.
Rahul Shanker Brings Decades of Experience in FMCG & Beauty
Taking over as CEO, Rahul Shanker comes with an impressive background in global consumer brands. He has held senior leadership positions at PepsiCo, Wrigley-Mars, Philips, Avon, and Modicare, with expertise spanning FMCG, personal care, and wellness. His leadership is expected to further enhance Quest Retail’s omnichannel strategy, accelerate digital transformation, and drive next-level growth.
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Expressing his excitement about the new role, Shanker said, “Quest Retail has built an extraordinary brand portfolio and a formidable omnichannel ecosystem. My focus will be on scaling operations, crafting innovative customer experiences, and identifying fresh growth opportunities. I look forward to working alongside an exceptional team to take the company to even greater heights.”
Quest Retail: A Beauty Giant Shaping the Future
Founded in 2006, Quest Retail has emerged as one of India’s most influential beauty and specialty retail companies. With a strong foothold in both brick-and-mortar and digital retail, the company continues to push boundaries in omnichannel distribution, sustainability, and retail innovation.
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Its House of Beauty division is home to some of the most sought-after international beauty brands, including The Body Shop, Kiehl’s, Avon, Kylie Cosmetics, Anastasia Beverly Hills, Max Factor, Neal’s Yard Remedies, Juice Beauty, The Honest Tree, and Boddess.
With Rahul Shanker at the helm and Shriti Malhotra guiding the company’s strategic direction, Quest Retail is poised for an exciting new chapter in India’s thriving beauty market.
