[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Gagan Mangal, Lead – Marketing Communications & Press at Volkswagen India, has made an exit from the company after more than 14 years, marking the end of a long and meaningful journey with the German carmaker. His exit marks the end of a long chapter that coincided with some of the most important phases in Volkswagen’s journey in the Indian market.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]Mangal joined Volkswagen in 2011 and went on to play a key role in shaping the brand’s communications and public narrative in India. His tenure covered multiple product cycles and strategic shifts, including the highly successful Vento and Polo years, the introduction of global nameplates such as the Beetle, Tiguan and Golf GTI, and later the transition to the India 2.0 strategy with locally developed and manufactured models like the Taigun and Virtus.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]As the face behind many of Volkswagen India’s brand and media initiatives, Mangal was closely involved in repositioning the company as it focused on localisation, quality and brand-led growth. One of the standout moments during this phase was the Taigun’s presence at the World Car of the Year (WCOTY) awards in 2021, where the India-made SUV was showcased on a global platform, underlining the brand’s confidence in Indian engineering and manufacturing capabilities. His work helped maintain brand consistency even as Volkswagen navigated challenges such as shifting regulations, changing consumer preferences and increasing competition in the Indian passenger vehicle space.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]In his farewell note shared on LinkedIn, Mangal said his biggest takeaway was not just the car launches or awards, but the belief built around the Volkswagen brand. According to him, Volkswagen stood for strong engineering, character and integrity, and that idea was central to all the work done over the years. He credits several leaders, mentors, colleagues and partners for shaping his journey, saying he was trusted with responsibility early on and encouraged to grow. He highlighted teamwork and shared ambition as key reasons behind many of the milestones achieved.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]While he has confirmed his exit, details about his next professional move remain under wraps. Sources indicate that an announcement regarding his next role is expected in due course. Given his deep experience in automotive marketing and communications, his next step is being closely watched within the industry.
[color=hsl(0,0%,0%)]For now, Mangal has said he is stepping away with gratitude and pride, adding that some professional journeys never truly end, but become part of one’s identity. His departure comes at a time when Volkswagen India continues to strengthen its India 2.0 portfolio and prepare for its next phase of growth in the country. |
