INDIA – Swiggy, the online food delivery start-up has appointed former Procter & Gamble (P&G) executive Vivek Sunder as first ever Chief Operating Officer for its business.

Vivek will manage the company’s operating units with a responsibility to accelerate Swiggy’s mission of making the lives of consumers more convenient and hassle-free, ET Retail has revealed.

He will also be in charge of developing and executing the firm’s strategic direction and priorities to drive organizational growth and operational excellence.

The appointment which came with an immediate effect, is the first ever COO position at the Naspers and DST Global-backed firm.

He held the position of managing director for P&G’s East Africa operations and brings to Swiggy 20 years of experience in the FMCG industry in various business and technology ranks across different geographical regions.

“Swiggy’s strength lies in the quality and talent of our team, which has received an incredible boost with Vivek coming on board,” said Sriharsha Majety, CEO, Swiggy.

“I am confident that his proven track record and extensive experience, coupled with a laser-focus on industry-leading operational practices will drive and extend Swiggy’s upward trajectory.”

As a managing director at P&G, he is said to have greatly contributed to bottom-line growth, with increased market share and margins in a difficult macroeconomic climate.

Responding to his appointment, Sunder said, “It is impressive to see just how much Swiggy has been able to achieve in less than four years through an obsessive focus on the consumer and flawless last-mile execution.

“I am extremely energized to help lead the company to its next phase of innovation and growth tied with operational excellence.”

Talks to hire a new COO for Swiggy’s main marketplace business were reported September last year by Mint.

In December, Swiggy appointed a new COO for its new supply vertical soon after it acquired Bengaluru-based gourmet Asian food start-up 48East.

48East’s co-founder Joseph Cherian was named chief operating officer for the new supply vertical after the acquisition.