Lineage explores connection between food infrastructure and economic development
He is Masters in Marketing Management from NMIMS, Mumbai
Coca-Cola India announced the appointment of Ajay Vijay Bathija, as Vice President of Franchise Operations for Southwest Asia (SWA). Ajay’s extensive career journey with The Coca-Cola Company spans nearly 24 years and encompasses a distinct combination of marketing and franchise expertise.
In 1999, Ajay embarked on his professional journey with the Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages Pvt. Ltd. (HCCBPL) Front Line Sales team. He was the Region Manager for the Mekong Delta Region at SabCo Vietnam, in 2005.
He returned to India as Director Marketing for Colas and spearheaded the ground-breaking “Share a Coke” campaign. He successfully introduced Coca-Cola Zero sugar for the first time in the INSWA (India and Southwest Asia) markets. He was also instrumental in rejuvenating ThumsUp through integrated marketing campaigns.
As the Country Manager for Bangladesh from 2018-2020, Ajay worked closely with the Bottling Partners to bring Bangladesh among the top 3 markets in Coca-Cola TM, within The Coca-Cola Company (TCCC) globally. In 2020, he transitioned to Senior Director – Front Line Marketing and successfully launched the most celebrated musical franchise of the Company, ‘Coke Studio’ in Bangladesh.
Commenting on the appointment, Sanket Ray – President, India, and Southwest Asia, said “With his understanding of business, and growth mindset, Ajay has a proven track record of taking the business to newer heights. We are hopeful that with his astute business acumen and collaborative approach he will further the organization’s purpose in the Southwest Asia region.”