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Sapphire Foods India Ltd has unveiled a leadership transition across its KFC and Pizza Hut businesses, following the resignation of Deepak Taluja and a series of key executive appointments.
In a regulatory filing on May 29, the company announced that Taluja, President and Chief Executive Officer of its KFC business, will step down at the close of business on July 24, 2026. He will continue in his current role throughout the notice period to ensure a smooth transition.
To succeed him, Sapphire Foods has appointed Vikrant Vohra as President and Chief Executive Officer of the KFC business, effective July 25, 2026. Vohra currently serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of the company’s Pizza Hut division and will remain a part of the senior management team.
Bringing nearly 20 years of hospitality experience, Vohra has held leadership roles with renowned brands such as The Park, Hyatt, Taj and Marriott International. During his tenure at Sapphire Foods, he previously led KFC operations across Karnataka, Kerala and West India before assuming responsibility for the Pizza Hut business.
The company has also promoted Saurabh Girdhar to Assistant Vice President and Chief Operating Officer of the Pizza Hut business, effective July 25, 2026. Girdhar currently oversees Pizza Hut operations in Bangalore and Kerala as Chief Operating Officer.
According to Sapphire Foods, Girdhar brings more than 17 years of experience in the quick-service restaurant sector and has previously worked with Yum India and Devyani International before joining the company.
In his resignation letter, Taluja reflected on his decade-long journey with the organisation, expressing gratitude to the leadership team and colleagues for their support. He also affirmed his commitment to facilitating a seamless handover during the transition period.
