Rachana Panda has joined the global crop science and pharma major to lead it external engagement as vice- president and country head for communications, public affairs and sustainability for South Asia.

She occupies a role created for the first time for South Asia that oversees communications, public affairs and sustainability.

Reporting to D. Narain, senior Bayer representative for South Asia and vice chairman & managing director for Bayer CropScience Limited, Panda will be a member of Bayer’s South Asia Leadership Team. She will work across all of Bayer’s businesses in the region, in addition to collaborating with global teams to provide impetus to the group’s multiple initiatives in the region.

In her earlier role, Rachana was the chief communications officer for GE South Asia. Over her career, she has also worked with companies such as Alstom, Alcatel and UTStarcom.

D. Narain, senior Bayer representative for South Asia and vice chairman & managing director for Bayer CropScience Limited said, “We are delighted to welcome Rachana on board. With her vast experience across sectors, she will play a pivotal role in enabling Bayer achieve its commitments to support society and business growth in the region.”

Rachana Panda said, “I am excited to join Bayer with its rich legacy globally of translating its vision to reality for the benefit of society at large! It’s a privilege to support this journey in a region that needs it the most and look forward to playing an integral part in this growth journey.”