In a move to strengthen its presence in India, Boeing India on Wednesday announced the appointment of two senior executives to lead its efforts in India. Ian Thomas has been appointed as vice president of Boeing International and president of Boeing India. He succeeds Anil Shrikhande, who has been appointed vice president and country leader for Integrated Defense Systems.

Mr Thomas will be responsible for leading Boeing’s enterprise-wide India team, and strengthening the company’s local presence. “With Ian joining the Boeing team and Anil dedicating his extensive experience, market insights and relationships to IDS, Boeing has significantly strengthened its ability to capitalise on growth opportunities in this strategically important market,” said Laurette Koellner, president of Boeing International. “India is a priority market for Boeing,” Mr Koellner added.

Boeing Commercial Airplanes’ sales and marketing team will retain its current structure and continues to be led by Dinesh Keskar, vice president of Sales for South and Southeast Asia, from Seattle. Mr Keskar will continue to work with senior government officials related to commercial aeroplane activities.

Larry Coughlin, managing director of India Operations, will remain responsible for coordinating and integrating in-country operations for Boeing Commercial Airplanes. “Anil Shrikhande’s appointment reflects the importance IDS is placing on the Indian defence market which holds great potential to generate new revenue for the company,” said Mark Kronenberg, vice president for IDS business development for Asia-Pacific.