Taking over from Etika’s previous CEO, Khalid Alvi, Mr. Santharuban Thurai Sundaram has been formally appointed as the new acting CEO of the Etika Group of Companies (Etika). The new role will see him oversee the company’s growth trajectory as a business through digitalization and innovative market strategies in the Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei markets.
Mr. Sundaram brings with him a wealth of experience of more than two decades, having held varied positions including as Etika’s Senior Vice President Marketing and Alternate Business and more recently, CEO of Advend Group of Companies, a Singapore-based vending business acquired by Etika in 2019.
This announcement comes at a momentous time in the Group’s growth journey as it looks towards healthier alternatives and sustainable approaches within the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) industry.
“The FMCG industry is continuously evolving and much needs to be done as the needs of the consumer rapidly change with new trends and demands,” said Mr. Sundaram.
“For us in the FMCG sector, it becomes important to incorporate purposeful approaches that create a positive impact on our consumers, community and environment. It therefore gives me great honour to be appointed as the CEO of an organisation like Etika, that is constantly striving to build better communities.”
Through his leadership, Malaysia’s FMCG industry has seen many innovative campaigns and strategies that saw the rise of brands like WONDA Coffee and Goodday Milk and prompted further growth of brands like Pepsi, Mountain Dew and Tropicana.
“I look forward to collaborating with the extended team and continue to bring more value for our consumers,” he concludes.