
Praveen R. Akkinepally To Succeed Dr Sanjeev K. Panchal As MD Of AstraZeneca Pharma India
Praveen Rao Akkinepally has been appointed as Managing Director (Additional Director) of AstraZeneca Pharma India Limited, effective July 1, 2025. He will be succeeding Dr Sanjeev Kumar Panchal, who has offered to resign from the same position, effective June 30, 2025.
Akkinepally is a seasoned commercial leader with over 20 years of experience across the US, global markets, and India in oncology and biopharmaceuticals. At AstraZeneca, he has led the successful launch of multiple brands and shaped global commercialisation strategies, earning several Excellence and CEO Awards. As the Oncology Business Unit Head for India, he has driven strong growth, strengthened market leadership, and set benchmarks in oncology brand launches. Known for building inclusive, high-performing teams, he actively promotes gender diversity and employee engagement. He also contributes to policy advocacy through his role on the Cancer Round Tables of FICCI, where he has supported initiatives aimed at improving cancer care infrastructure and access across India.