NielsenIQ appoints Puneet Sharma as India MD

NielsenIQ has appointed Puneet Sharma as Managing Director, India, effective September 30, 2026, as the consumer intelligence company looks to accelerate growth and strengthen its presence in one of the world's fastest-evolving consumer markets.

Based in Mumbai, Sharma will lead NIQ India's commercial strategy and business operations, with a focus on expanding client partnerships, strengthening market presence and enhancing the company's consumer, retail, digital and e-commerce intelligence capabilities.

Sharma brings over two decades of experience

Sharma brings more than two decades of leadership experience across consumer and service businesses, having held senior roles at J&J/Kenvue, The Coca-Cola Company, Bacardi, BCCL (Times Group), Aircel, and Carrier.

Most recently, he served as Sales Director at Kenvue, where he was responsible for shaping commercial strategy, strengthening customer and channel partnerships, and driving business transformation amid changing consumer trends.

Across his career, Sharma has built expertise in commercial strategy, sales leadership, customer engagement, go-to-market transformation and developing high-performing teams. "Puneet joins NIQ at a pivotal moment for both our business and the Indian market," said Daniel Chorbadjian, Regional President, EEMEA and India, NIQ.

"As consumer behavior continues to evolve and clients increasingly seek integrated intelligence across retail, e-commerce, digital, and consumer insights, India represents a significant opportunity for growth and innovation. Puneet brings deep market knowledge, commercial expertise, and extensive experience building customer relationships. His leadership will be instrumental as we strengthen our position in India, and create even greater value for our clients."

India emerges as key growth market for NIQ

India remains a strategic growth market for NIQ, supported by rising consumer spending, rapid digitalisation, the expansion of modern trade and the growing convergence of online and offline commerce.

The company continues to invest in measurement capabilities, technology, talent and innovation to help businesses understand changing consumer behaviour and make more informed decisions.

Sharma's appointment comes as companies increasingly seek integrated data and insights across traditional retail, e-commerce and digital channels, making consumer intelligence a critical part of business and marketing strategies. "I am excited to join NIQ at a time of tremendous opportunity for both the company and the Indian market," Sharma said.

"India's consumer ecosystem is transforming quickly, creating new possibilities for businesses to innovate, compete, and grow. NIQ is uniquely positioned to help clients navigate that change by connecting comprehensive consumer and retail intelligence, technology, and measurement capabilities."

"I look forward to working with our teams and clients to build on NIQ's strong foundation in India, accelerate growth and identify new opportunities in this dynamic market," he added.