KKR-backed Vini Cosmetics (“Vini”), maker of market-leading FOGG body spray, today announced the appointment of Vishal Kaul as its Chief Executive Officer (“CEO”), effective February 2022. In this newly created role, Vishal will work closely with Vini’s Board of Directors to execute the company’s growth plans, including new products and categories.

Vishal was brought on board after a rigorous global search process that followed investment firm KKR’s acquisition of a majority stake in Vini in July 2021. As Vini’s CEO, Vishal will be responsible for day-to-day operations and executing the company’s long-term strategy. This includes launching and growing new product categories, expanding Vini’s e-commerce platform, broadening its sales and distribution network, and attracting talent to scale up Vini. He will be supported by Vini’s co-founders, who will continue to provide strategic support and have access to KKR’s global network and operational expertise.

Darshan Patel, Chairman of Vini, said, “Appointing a consumer-centric and digitally savvy CEO of Vishal’s caliber who can lead Vini into its next phase of growth was one of our and KKR’s top priorities. We are excited for Vishal to join our team and welcome his expertise in transforming global consumer businesses, in addition to his strong entrepreneurial perspective and deep understanding of the Indian market and consumers. Alongside our shareholders, we fully back Vishal and look forward to supporting his work to achieve Vini’s vision of becoming a leading provider of personal care products globally.”

Vishal brings more than 20 years of global brand and general management experience to Vini. He will join the company from PepsiCo India, where he was Vice-President and Business Head for the beverages business for India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, and Bhutan. He turned around the beverages business and led it to a path of profitable growth and share gain. He is also credited for building a high-performing team, a portfolio of iconic brands, and a strong franchise ecosystem. Vishal holds an MBA in Marketing from the Symbiosis Centre for Management and Human Resource Development and an engineering degree from Punjab Engineering College.

Commenting on the appointment, Vishal said, “I am thrilled to join Vini during its exciting phase of growth, and look forward to delivering high-quality, differentiated personal care and beauty products to our consumers globally. It is a privilege to work closely with Darshanbhai and Dipambhai, who are trailblazers in this industry and have created market-leading brands that have become household names. Increasingly consumers are looking for lifestyle upgrades, quality products, and services. I am confident that we at Vini will continue to innovate and provide a consumer-centric portfolio which will serve the current and evolving needs of our consumers.”