Bata Pakistan Limited has announced the appointment of Ahsan Umar as its new Chief Executive Officer and Managing Director, effective January 2026. The leadership change comes at a key moment for the company as it moves forward with digital transformation and a stronger focus on customer-driven growth.
Ahsan Umar succeeds Muhammad Imran Malik, who is retiring after 35 years of service at Bata. His tenure is remembered for steady growth, strong operations, and long-term contributions to the company’s success.
The new CEO brings more than 20 years of experience across retail, textile, and consumer goods sectors. He is known for leading organizational turnarounds, expanding retail networks, and aligning strategy with execution.
Before becoming CEO, Ahsan Umar served as Commercial Director at Bata Pakistan, where he played a major role in modernizing merchandising and strengthening retail, franchise, and e-commerce channels. Earlier in his career, he worked at Masood Textile Mills as Director of Operations, leading the shift toward sustainable and high-end fashion manufacturing for global brands.
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He also served as Country Head of Retail at Service Sales Corporation, where he delivered 16 percent compound annual growth over four years, expanded the store network, and upgraded hundreds of outlets. At Metro Cash & Carry, he managed nationwide operations and achieved strong sales growth while improving supply chain efficiency.
Academically, Ahsan Umar has earned multiple gold medals from leading institutions, including Lahore University of Management Sciences and the University of the Punjab. He is also a graduate of Harvard Business School’s leadership program. He remains actively involved with the Suleman Dawood School of Business at LUMS, where he mentors young professionals and supports talent development.
Company officials say his leadership style focuses on people, performance, and sustainability. As CEO, he is expected to strengthen Bata’s retail presence, introduce innovative customer experiences, and deepen the company’s commitment to responsible business practices.
The appointment marks a new chapter for Bata Pakistan as it prepares to grow further while staying relevant to changing consumer needs across the country.
