Gurugram: As it gears up for a crucial phase of brand resurgence and fresh product momentum, Nissan Motor India Pvt. Ltd. has appointed Gagan Mangal as its new Head of Communications, effective January 12, 2026.
Based out of Gurugram, Mangal will lead Nissan’s communications strategy in India, reporting to Katherine Zachary, Vice President – International Communications, while working closely with Saurabh Vatsa, Managing Director of Nissan Motor India. In simple terms: one global ear, one India-focused eye, and one clear voice for the brand.
A Timely Appointment, With the Volume Turned Up
Welcoming the appointment, Saurabh Vatsa said Nissan is entering a pivotal phase in India and Mangal’s experience will play a key role in shaping the company’s next chapter. With multiple product actions on the horizon, Nissan clearly wants its message to be as sharp as its sheet metal.
And who better to handle that task than someone who knows the Indian auto media ecosystem inside out?
From Wolfsburg to Yokohama (via Gurugram)
Mangal joins Nissan from Volkswagen India, where he headed Press and Marketing Communications. A management graduate with over 18 years of experience, his résumé also includes a stint with Hyundai Motor India—which means he has already survived multiple launch cycles, embargo calls, and “Can we get this quote before 6 pm?” emails.
Across his career, Mangal has been closely involved in integrated communications strategies covering product launches, large-scale events, brand campaigns, and long-term narrative building—skills that are especially valuable as Nissan looks to rebuild mindshare in a fiercely competitive Indian market.
Crafting a Confident, Customer-Centric Narrative
Expressing his excitement, Gagan Mangal said India remains a priority market for Nissan, with significant opportunities to strengthen brand relevance, trust, and customer connection. He emphasised the importance of creating a communication narrative that reflects Nissan’s global ambitions while resonating authentically with Indian audiences.
In other words, fewer buzzwords, more clarity—and stories that customers actually want to hear.
Katherine Zachary echoed the sentiment, noting that Mangal’s deep automotive communications expertise and understanding of the Indian media landscape will be instrumental as Nissan enters an exciting new phase in the country.
In his new role, Mangal will play a central part in Nissan’s India resurgence—supporting upcoming product launches, strengthening media engagement, and ensuring the brand speaks with one clear, confident voice.
Because in today’s auto industry, launching cars is important—but telling the right story, at the right time, might just be the real horsepower.
