Sony Music Entertainment India (SME) today announced the appointment of Vinit Thakkar as the company’s managing director.

Thakkar will be in charge of the company’s operations in one of the world’s fastest-growing and most dynamic music markets, working closely with regional and global teams to strengthen SME India’s strategic partnerships and identify new growth opportunities for its artists.

Thakkar will take over as managing director from Rajat Kakar, who is set to leave at the end of this month and will report directly to Shridhar Subramaniam, president of corporate strategy and market development for Asia and the Middle East.

Thakkar previously worked in banking and consumer products before joining SME India as a chief operating officer for Universal Music in India and South Asia. Thakkar was instrumental in major label signings of major artists and is widely credited with the creation and launch of artist-centered platforms.

Through the promotion and creation of culturally significant and commercially successful non-film music in India, Thakkar has cemented his wide-ranging impact on India’s pop music industry and the wider music ecosystem.

“We are delighted to welcome Vinit to Sony Music Entertainment India,” said Shridhar Subramaniam, President of Corporate Strategy and Market Development for Sony Music Entertainment Asia and the Middle East. “His expertise, wide breadth of experience, steadfast belief in supporting artists and focus on placing creativity at the center, all while driving strategic and commercial growth, make him ideal for our company. I am confident that he will meet our goals for this critical market. I’d also like to thank Rajat, who has done an excellent job elevating our company, and we wish him the best of luck in the future.”

“India is a remarkable country for musical talent and creativity that crosses cultural and geographical boundaries. I’m excited to help our artists and creators achieve greater success by introducing them to new and exciting ways to connect with their fans through new partnerships. Rajat has done an admirable job of steering the company, and I consider myself fortunate to be working with such a talented group to propel our company forward,” said Vinit Thakkar.

“I started my music career with this incredible team over 25 years ago and I leave with a huge sense of satisfaction. I am confident that the company will have continued success in the years ahead under Vinit’s stewardship,” added Rajat Kakar.