Escorts Kubota has appointed Manish Sharma to the position of president of its agribusiness division, which is the largest segment of the company's business. Sharma, who possesses extensive experience in consumer goods manufacturing and production operations, has joined the major manufacturer of agricultural and construction machinery.
According to regulatory filings, Manish Sharma, formerly the chairman and CEO of Panasonic India, will now be responsible for the tractor business, agri-solutions, as well as service and spare parts divisions in both domestic and international markets, as stated in the Escorts Kubota document on Monday.
This move marks a new phase in Sharma's career, given his over thirty years of experience in the home appliance and consumer electronics industry, including 17 years of leadership at Panasonic India. His appointment comes at a time when Escorts Kubota is increasing its focus on agricultural mechanization using technology, exports, and enhancing the premium nature of its tractor portfolio amid growing competition in the agricultural machinery sector.
The Escorts Kubota conglomerate, founded by the Nanda family and based in Faridabad, Haryana, manufactures agricultural machinery, construction equipment, and industrial products. The principal and controlling shareholder of Escorts Kubota is Kubota Corporation, the Japanese giant in agricultural and construction machinery, which holds 53.5 percent of the shares following a series of investments. Nikhil Nanda retains the positions of Chairman and Managing Director.
Sharma's experience in product development, manufacturing, supply chain management, brand building, and business transformation is expected to help the company accelerate growth initiatives in both domestic and foreign markets. Previously, he collaborated with industry bodies such as FICCI and participated in policy forums, and continues to serve as Senior Advisor to Panasonic Energy.
Sharma's appointment demonstrates the company's intent to attract experienced professional leaders to capitalize on opportunities arising from the growth of agricultural mechanization, improved rural productivity, and increased demand for high-tech agricultural equipment. Escorts Kubota is among the leading manufacturers of tractors and agricultural machinery in India, selling products under brands such as Farmtrac, Powertrac, and Kubota. The company operates in over 40 countries and is expanding its global presence through strategic investments and subsequent increases in ownership stake by Kubota Corporation.
