Mumbai: Roche Pharma India has announced the appointment of Rajwinder (Rajji) Mehdwan as its new Country General Manager, effective 1 April 2025. In this role, Rajji will also join the leadership team of the CEETRIS (Central Eastern Europe, Turkey, Russia & Indian Subcontinent) region, reporting directly to Francois du Toit, Area Head of CEETRIS, Roche Pharmaceuticals. Her appointment comes at a pivotal time for Roche Pharma India, as the company continues to strengthen its presence in India through strategic partnerships, innovative product launches, and investments across new therapy areas.
With over 20 years of experience in the healthcare industry, Rajji brings a wealth of expertise to her new role. She has held key leadership positions at both Roche and Johnson & Johnson, contributing significantly to Roche’s success since joining the company in 2010. Rajji has demonstrated exceptional leadership across various roles, including Associate Director for Virology and Specialty Care at Genentech, Portfolio Operations Leader for BioOncology, Portfolio Strategy Director for Denmark, and General Manager for Roche Pharma Norway. Most recently, she led People & Culture for Roche’s Pharma International Business, overseeing more than 100 markets. During her time in Norway, she was also the Chairwoman and Board Member of the American Chamber of Commerce, Norway, and a Board Member of the Norway Pharmaceutical Industry Association.
Francois du Toit, Area Head of CEETRIS, Roche Pharmaceuticals, expressed his confidence in Rajji’s leadership, “Rajji is an inspirational and inclusive leader, with a strong focus on delivering impactful outcomes for patients, health ecosystems, and Roche’s global business. Her appointment signals our continued commitment to strengthening our partnership with India’s healthcare system, addressing its most critical challenges, and driving sustainable growth for Roche. I firmly believe that her extensive global experience, strategic thinking, and commitment to Roche’s values make her an excellent fit for this role.”
Rajji holds a Bachelor’s degree from the Government College for Women, Ludhiana, a Registered Nursing Degree from the Royal Free Hospital in London, and an MBA from the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.
Additionally, Roche Pharma India announces that V Simpson Emmanuel, who has served as General Manager since 2020, will step down from his position due to personal reasons. The company expressed gratitude for his leadership and contributions, wishing him the best for his future endeavours.