McCain Foods' Gunjan Pandey joins Dr. Oetker India as VP, marketing

She will operate from the company's head office in Delhi.

Dr. Oetker India, a popular supplier of Western cuisine to India, has roped in Gunjan Pandey as vice-president, marketing. Pandey, who took over her new responsibilities on May 3, 2016, will push Dr. Oetker's growth plans in the Indian market. She will also drive the launch of Dr. Oetker's international categories in India. She will be based at the company's head office in Delhi, and will report to Oliver Mirza, managing director and CEO, Dr. Oetker India.

As part of her mandate, Pandey will also be responsible for increasing the brand's consumer connect in key markets by employing marketing strategies that would lead to an increased awareness around Western food concepts in the country.

Pandey joins from McCain Foods where she was general manager, marketing, and worked towards brand-building, as well as making the frozen potato snacks category in India a popular offering from the McCain Foods stable.

Commenting on the announcement, Mirza, says, "(Gunjan) Pandey's appointment is an important one considering Dr. Oetker's growth plans in the Indian market. Her addition is vital and will further the organisation's efforts to be a marketing-driven organisation. She brings with her rich experience in the FMGC sector which will be helpful in the launch of Dr. Oetker's international categories in the country. Her marketing expertise in dealing with retail and hotel, as well as in the restaurant and catering space makes her an important addition to our team."

Prior to joining Dr. Oetker India, Pandey handled various marketing positions in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, having worked with brands such as Nivea and Dabur.

Dr. Oetker is the Oetker Group's food division, with a presence in over 50 countries. Dr. Oetker India, established in 2007, is a leading manufacturer of pleasure food with a focus on Western food products. The company acquired the Delhi-based Fun Foods in December 2008, which has been present in the country since 1983.

Dr. Oetker India serves food service industry brands such as Pizza Hut, KFC, Subway, Domino's Pizza, Dunkin' Donuts, Chilies, Costa Coffee, and Krispy Crème, as well as prominent five-star hotels across India.