Nissan Appoints Sabbagh India President, Boosts Regional Oversight for Growth

Nissan Elevates Thierry Sabbagh to India President

Nissan Motor Co. has expanded the mandate of senior executive Thierry Sabbagh, appointing him President for India effective January 1, 2026. This strategic move places India under his direct leadership as part of a significant restructuring across Nissan's Africa, Middle East, India, Europe, and Oceania (AMIEO) region. Sabbagh will now oversee both Nissan and Infiniti operations across the Middle East, Saudi Arabia, CIS, and India.

Strategic Focus on India

The leadership realignment underscores Nissan's commitment to enhancing governance and execution within the Indian market. By consolidating responsibilities at the regional level, the automaker seeks to improve operational efficiency and expedite decision-making processes. India is positioned to play a more critical role in Nissan's regional strategy, driven by a clear product roadmap.

Product Pipeline and Network Expansion

Nissan plans to introduce three new models in India within the next 14 to 16 months, including the Gravite, Tekton, and a seven-seater C-SUV. Concurrently, the company aims to expand its domestic retail footprint, growing its dealer network to approximately 250 customer touchpoints nationwide. This dual approach targets improved market coverage and enhanced customer access.

Leadership Transitions

The expanded role for Sabbagh, who has a long-standing association with Nissan's Middle East operations, signals a closer integration with the broader AMIEO strategy. In a separate announcement, Leon Dorssers, Senior Vice President and Chief of Commercial Operations for AMIEO, will depart the company. These changes follow a series of product launches across AMIEO markets in 2025, with further introductions planned for 2026, including early-year launches in India.