Vibhor Jain named acting CEO of ONDC as top execs exited and the search for a new CEO continues.
In a significant leadership transition, the Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC) has appointed Vibhor Jain, the platform’s current Chief Operating Officer, as the Acting Chief Executive Officer (CEO) with immediate effect. This development comes amid a wave of senior-level exits and the conclusion of the Executive Committee’s interim leadership role, as ONDC intensifies its search for a permanent CEO.
The appointment of Jain marks a move toward centralised leadership during a critical phase for ONDC, a government-backed initiative under the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Since its incorporation on December 30, 2021, ONDC has surpassed 200 million transactions, strengthening its mission to democratise digital commerce across India.
Expressing gratitude on assuming the new role, Jain said:
“It is an honour to take on this responsibility at a time when ONDC is expanding its footprint and impact across the country. I am committed to working closely with the board, stakeholders and the broader ecosystem to ensure continuity and momentum as we deliver on our mission.”
Suresh Sethi, ONDC Board Member, commented:
“The Executive Committee has done a commendable job of guiding ONDC during a critical phase. However, with several key strategic decisions underway, it is imperative to have a single point of leadership to drive cohesive execution. Vibhor has played a pivotal role in shaping ONDC’s operational framework, and the board has full confidence in his ability to lead during this transition.”
Jain, who is also part of ONDC’s eight-member Executive Committee, now assumes full executive powers. As a result, the platform announced the conclusion of the Committee’s interim oversight, with all responsibilities being consolidated under Jain’s leadership.
The leadership shift follows the recent departure of several high-profile executives, including Founding MD & CEO Thampy Koshy, Chief Business Officer Shireesh Joshi, and Non-Executive Chairperson R S Sharma, signalling a period of restructuring within the organisation.
ONDC continues to work toward identifying a new Managing Director and CEO, while Jain will steer the platform’s strategic initiatives and operations in the interim. As India’s digital commerce landscape rapidly evolves, ONDC’s leadership consolidation aims to ensure consistency in execution and sustained momentum in achieving its ambitious goals.
Source: Business Standard
