Arvind Fashions Limited (AFL) has announced a leadership change at its premium menswear brand Arrow, with Anand Aiyer stepping down as Chief Executive Officer due to personal reasons, effective 9 January 2026. Aiyer had been leading Arrow for the past 2.5 years, driving brand strategy, expansion and P&L delivery.
The company has appointed Nitesh Kanchan, currently serving as CDO (Chief Digital Officer) – AFL, as the new CEO of Arrow. His redesignation will take effect from 1 January 2026, and he will continue to be part of AFL’s senior management team.
Kanchan brings over 24 years of experience across apparel, fashion and beauty retail, with a strong track record in digital transformation, brand building, and operational leadership. He has worked with leading international brands including Sephora, Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein, Esprit, Louis Philippe and Arrow.
A seasoned retail professional, Kanchan has played key roles across e-commerce, offline retail, supply chain, and planning. He has led major digital initiatives within AFL and previously headed the India business for Sephora, steering the global beauty retailer’s growth in the country. His earlier stint as COO of Arrow gives him deep familiarity with the brand’s retail, product and operational ecosystem.
Arvind Fashions is one of India’s leading players in the casualwear and denim space, offering a diverse mix of fashion choices across categories and price segments. Its portfolio spans powerful international brands including U.S. Polo Assn., Tommy Hilfiger, Calvin Klein and Arrow, alongside homegrown favourites like Flying Machine.
