Indian pharmaceutical company Cipla Ltd has announced a change in its leadership, with current Chief Operating Officer (COO) Achin Gupta set to take over as the company’s next Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Managing Director. Gupta will succeed Umang Vohra, who has decided not to seek re-appointment after completing his current term on March 31, 2026. The transition is part of a planned succession process developed by the company’s board, and Gupta’s appointment is subject to shareholder approval.
Gupta, who joined Cipla in 2021 and became COO in February 2025, will assume his new role on April 1, 2026, for a five-year term. As COO, he currently oversees the company’s commercial markets, active pharmaceutical ingredient, manufacturing, and supply chain operations. Gupta has a strong educational background, holding an MTech in Biochemical Engineering and Biotechnology from IIT Delhi and an MBA from IIM Ahmedabad.
Outgoing CEO Umang Vohra has been with Cipla since 2015, serving as Global Chief Financial & Strategy Officer before taking over as MD & CEO in 2016. Cipla’s chairman, Dr. Y K Hamied, thanked Vohra for his dedication and contributions to the company, wishing him success in his future endeavors. Dr. Hamied expressed confidence in Gupta’s ability to lead Cipla to its next phase of growth and progress.
Gupta has expressed his honor at being entrusted with the responsibility of leading Cipla, stating that he is committed to driving the company’s purpose of “Caring for Life” and combining business with a humanitarian approach. With Gupta at the helm, Cipla is expected to continue its focus on delivering high-quality, affordable medicines to patients worldwide. The company’s planned transition is seen as a positive move, ensuring continuity and stability in its leadership, and positioning Cipla for future success in the competitive pharmaceutical industry.