L’Oréal's Ankit Porwal moves to India-based Marico to drive digital beauty ambitions

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L’Oréal regional leader Ankit Porwal (pictured) has joined India-based Marico as CEO – beauty and styling, digital business, in a move that underscores the FMCG major’s ambition to scale a digital-first beauty portfolio.

Announced via LinkedIn, the appointment forms part of Marico’s broader strategy to accelerate innovation and build digitally driven consumer brands within the beauty and personal care segment. Marico described the hire as another milestone in its ongoing 3.0 journey.

Porwal brings more than 13 years of experience from L’Oréal, where he held multiple leadership roles spanning beauty, eCommerce, innovation and marketing transformation across markets such as Malaysia, Singapore, and Indonesia. Most recently, he served as regional director/general manager, eCommerce and marketing transformation for the SAPMENA region, overseeing digital growth initiatives across divisions.

Don't miss: L'Oréal promotes Ankit Porwal to GM of consumer products division for SG and MY

His remit covered key Southeast Asian markets, alongside India and parts of the Middle East and North Africa – experience that positions him well to navigate increasingly hybrid, cross-border beauty ecosystems.

In a post marking his departure, Porwal reflected on his tenure: “As I move on from L’Oréal, my heart is full of gratitude. L’Oréal taught me beauty and that a big vision only translates into results when passionate people are truly empowered.”

“It’s been 13+ years of accelerated growth, organised chaos and constant transformation. From building best in class digital, eCommerce, content COE to scaling global brands to leadership, I witnessed data-driven strategies and sharp consumer insights build sustainable, profitable businesses,” he added. “I leave behind a world-class organisation and take with me friendships that transcend geographies.”

Previously, another seasoned L’Oréal marketing and digital transformation leader, Lau Sook Ping, was tapped by Meta as its country director for Malaysia, marking a similar cross-industry move from beauty to big tech within the region. With also more than a decade at L’Oréal, she most recently served as chief digital and marketing officer for Malaysia and Singapore.

Porwal’s appointment comes as Marico accelerates investments in its digital-first portfolio. Since 2017, the company has invested approximately ₹1,665 crore (US$183 million) to acquire majority stakes in seven emerging brands, including beauty and personal care brands Skinetiq, Just Herbs, and Beardo, according to Storyboard18.

The portfolio exited FY25 with an annualised revenue run-rate of ₹750 crore (US$82 million), well ahead of initial aspirations. Management has indicated it is now targeting 2.5 times the FY24 exit run-rate by FY27 – revising its earlier 2x target upwards on the back of sustained traction – alongside achieving a double-digit EBITDA margin by FY27.

Founded in 1988, Marico is an India-based FMCG company specialising in beauty and wellness. Headquartered in Mumbai, the company operates across Asia and Africa, with a portfolio spanning hair care, edible oils, male grooming and emerging digital-first beauty brands.

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