Group: TRUSTED SALON/ SPA/ WELLNESS CENTRE

Vikram Bhatt, Founder, Enrich

Vikram Bhatt is the visionary founder of Enrich Salons, one of India’s largest unisex salon chains. With an MBA in Finance from Somaiya Institute (1995-1997), Vikram began his career in the corporate world, working with esteemed organizations such as the Wadia Group, E-First Global, and Accenture.

In 1997, Vikram, along with two friends, founded Enrich Salons, initially managing the business part-time while working full-time in the corporate sector. Over 15 years, he balanced both roles, gaining invaluable experience in finance, business operations, and leadership.

In 2011, Vikram transitioned to focus full-time on Enrich, driving its exponential growth to ~300 Cr in revenue, 110 outlets across seven cities, and a team of 2000 people serving 1.3 million customers annually. Under his leadership, Enrich emerged as a thought leader in the beauty industry, blending agility with corporate governance.

Vikram’s entrepreneurial journey has been marked by innovation, introducing concepts such as membership programs, service menus, and floor managers. He leveraged technology to enhance customer experiences, tracking journeys and capturing feedback.

As of January 2024, Vikram transitioned to a hands-off role, continuing as a member of Enrich’s Board of Directors. He now invests in businesses and startups aligned with his expertise, focusing on creating positive impact.

Vikram’s story exemplifies the “Accidental Entrepreneur” spirit, transforming an unexpected opportunity into a remarkable success. His experience spans finance, operations, leadership, and entrepreneurship, making him a respected figure in India’s beauty industry.

Sandeep Ahuja, Former Director, VLCC Group Companies

Sandeep Ahuja is a seasoned business leader with board-level experience and a proven track record of scaling businesses profitably in dynamic markets. With over three decades of experience in FMCG, wellness, and retail services, he has handled key roles in marketing, business development, sales, P&L management, corporate communications, international business setup, acquisitions, fund raising, and investor management.

Sandeep’s leadership expertise spans motivating large multinational teams (4,000+ people) across 14 countries in India, South Asia, South East Asia, the GCC Region, and East Africa. Previously, he served as Director at VLCC Group companies, including VLCC Health Care Ltd., VLCC International LLC – Middle East and Africa, and VLCC Personal Care Limited.

Currently, Sandeep serves as an Independent Director at companies in the consumer space. He holds a graduate degree in Economics and a postgraduate degree in Advertising & Marketing from Delhi University (1979-1982). His robust skill set includes business planning, marketing strategy, team management, and strategy.

Sandeep began his career in advertising and later worked at Escorts Limited, one of India’s largest engineering conglomerates. In 2002, he joined VLCC, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the company’s growth. He has also chaired key industry committees, including the National Wellness Committee of the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce & Industry (FICCI) and the Mentor Council for Beauty and Wellness, constituted by the Directorate General, Employment & Training, Govt. of India.

As a GLG Network Member, Sandeep leverages his 30+ years of experience in the beauty and wellness industry to help clients address market entry, scale-up, technology, and profitability management challenges.

Samir Srivastav, CEO, Looks Salons

Samir Srivastav serves as the Chief Executive Officer of Looks Salons, India’s largest luxury salon chain, leveraging 33 years of experience and exceptional leadership qualities to drive growth. His profound business acumen and in-depth knowledge, garnered from working with esteemed brands and corporates, have instilled in him the vision to introduce and promote international standards of quality service.

A distinguished senior thought leader in the Indian beauty industry, Samir is renowned for his exceptional leadership in steering the biggest beauty services brands across Indian and international markets. His career is marked by strategic vision and industry expertise, playing a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of the beauty sector in India.

Previously, Samir held various leadership positions, including CEO, Business Head, Executive Vice President, Regional Head, and Country Manager, at renowned companies such as:

– Jean Claude Biguine Salons

– Kaya Skin Clinic

– VLCC Health Care Limited

– Marico

Additionally, he collaborated with the National Skill Development Agency for two years, fostering public-private partnerships in the beauty industry across select states. Samir was also a key member of the Beauty skill development mission initiated by the Government of India, showcasing his commitment to empowering the nation’s youth.

Under his leadership, Looks Salons aims to expand to 500 salons by 2029, currently operating 200+ salons across 51 cities in India. Samir’s journey reflects a harmonious blend of business acumen and social responsibility, making him a catalyst for positive change within the Indian beauty sector.

Areas of Expertise:

– Salon & Spa Operations

– Franchise Operations

– Hair & Beauty Services Training & Education

– Retail

– B2B Wellness

– Pan India FMCG Sales and Distribution

– P&L Management for Company-Owned and Franchise Operations (India and international)

– Vocational Education

– Retail and FMCG Sales and Distribution

Areas of Expertise:

– Salon & Spa Operations

– Franchise Operations

– Hair & Beauty Services Training & Education

– Retail

– B2B Wellness

– Pan India FMCG Sales and Distribution

– P&L Management for Company-Owned and Franchise Operations (India and international)

– Vocational Education

– Retail and FMCG Sales and Distribution

Rohan Vaziralli, Country General Manager, Estee Lauder

A BBA from Adelphi University, Rohan Vaziralli joined Estee Lauder in 1996 as a production supervisor from where he went on to direct production & engineering as also manufacturing operations. He has also served a stint as business development manager for the company in Dubai. In 2005, he donned the mantle of country manager, ELCA Cosmetics, India, a subsidiary of Estee Lauder Companies He is responsible for Estee Lauder, MAC, Clinique, and Aramis & Designer fragrances brands in India.

Arun Pandey, Chairman & MD, Rhiti Group

Arun Pandey is a visionary entrepreneur and Chairman & Managing Director of Rhiti Group, one of India’s fastest-growing conglomerates. Since its inception in 2007, Rhiti Group has diversified into sports, health & fitness, branded retailing, and film production under his leadership.

As the founder and chairman, Arun has spearheaded Rhiti Group’s global expansion, establishing six offices worldwide, including Delhi, Mumbai, Dubai, London, Singapore, and New York. His strategic vision has enabled the group to become a leader in various sectors. Notably, SportsFit World, a health and fitness chain, has grown to over 14 studios across India, while RS Seven has emerged as a prominent active lifestyle and athlete-leisure footwear and apparel brand.

Arun’s success extends to the entertainment industry through Inspired Entertainment, which produced the critically acclaimed film ‘MS Dhoni: The Untold Story’. This achievement showcases his ability to inspire and uplift people through sports, health & fitness, and entertainment.

Under Arun’s leadership, Rhiti Group comprises four key businesses: Rhiti Sports Management, SportsFit World, RS Seven, and Inspired Entertainment. His innovative approach and leadership have propelled Rhiti Group to the forefront of India’s business landscape.

With a passion for using sports, health & fitness, and entertainment to inspire and uplift people, Arun Pandey continues to drive Rhiti Group’s growth and success.

About Rhiti Group

Rhiti Group is a conglomerate with interests in sports, health & fitness, branded retailing, and film production. Founded in 2007, the group has grown exponentially under Arun Pandey’s leadership, establishing a global presence and becoming a leader in various sectors.

CK Kumaravel, Co-founder & CMD, Naturals Salon & Spa

CK Kumaravel is the visionary Co-founder and Chairman cum Managing Director (CMD) of Naturals Salon & Spa. Alongside his wife, K Veena, he revolutionized the salon industry in 2000, transforming it from a ‘taboo’ activity to a lifestyle industry. Inspired by his mother, RC Hemalatha, Kumaravel aimed to empower women and create a ‘housewife-free India’.

Under his leadership, Naturals has grown exponentially since its inception in 2000, with 550+ salons across India. Kumaravel firmly believes that women are equally capable as men in business, requiring only guidance and support to thrive as entrepreneurs. Naturals provides this platform, empowering women to succeed. His long-term vision is to make Naturals the world’s No. 1 salon chain, with 1000 successful women entrepreneurs, 3000 salons, and 50,000 jobs by the end of 2025, globally.

As a pioneering entrepreneur, Kumaravel has transformed the salon industry’s perception and created opportunities for women empowerment. His expertise spans salon and spa operations, franchise management, women empowerment, entrepreneurship development, and business strategy. With Naturals, Kumaravel continues to inspire and empower women to become successful entrepreneurs, making a lasting impact on the industry.