In a strategic move signaling the next chapter in its global growth journey, Bata Group has appointed Panos Mytaros as its new global CEO, succeeding Sandeep Kataria, who has led the brand since 2020 with vision and resilience through a transformative period. Mytaros joins the legacy footwear giant with over three decades of international leadership in the footwear and leather industry most recently as Group CEO of ECCO, where he was credited with scaling innovation and deepening global market reach.
For Bata, a brand that has long straddled the line between heritage and reinvention, this leadership shift is both symbolic and strategic. Mytaros brings a rare blend of operational depth, design sensibility, and global acumen qualities that position him well to lead Bata through the complexities of an evolving retail landscape, shifting consumer behavior, and digital acceleration. His appointment reflects Bata’s intent to not only preserve its legacy but actively redefine it for the next generation.
Outgoing CEO Sandeep Kataria, who made history as Bata’s first Indian global CEO, leaves behind a track record marked by brand rejuvenation, supply chain modernization, and sustained market resilience across key regions. Having previously held senior roles at Unilever, Yum Brands, and Vodafone, Kataria will remain with the company for up to six months to ensure a seamless leadership transition a move that reinforces Bata’s commitment to continuity and long-term stability.
As the global footwear industry grapples with sustainability mandates, omnichannel evolution, and heightened customer expectations, Mytaros steps in at a defining moment. His leadership will be key to expanding Bata’s influence in both emerging and mature markets, while deepening its legacy as a brand that blends comfort, durability, and design with cultural relevance.
This is more than a CEO change it is the passing of the baton at a company ready to leap forward. With Panos Mytaros at the helm, Bata is poised to enter a new era of innovation led growth, building on its deep roots to walk confidently into the future.
