Pankaj Poddar leads Cosmo First Limited as Group CEO, driving a diversified global enterprise with a sharp focus on innovation, growth, and long-term value creation. Under his leadership, the organization has evolved beyond its legacy in films into a future-ready conglomerate spanning Films, Labelling & Packaging, Speciality Chemicals, Ferrites, Plastech, Window Films, Masterbatches, Chemicals, and Zigly Petcare — a fast-growing pet care venture.
With over more than three decades of rich experience, Pankaj brings a unique blend of financial acumen and strategic leadership. His journey exemplifies breaking conventional career paths — transitioning from a finance expert to a transformational business leader. Known for his analytical mindset, agility in decision-making, and strong commercial orientation, he has consistently delivered sustainable growth and operational excellence.
Pankaj began his journey with Cosmo First in 2011 as Global CFO, managing financial operations across India and international markets. His ability to align financial strategy with business objectives quickly positioned him as a key driver of organizational transformation.
Within a short span, he progressed to President – India Operations, and by 2013 was appointed CEO leading global operations. Today, as Group CEO, he oversees multiple businesses, steering them toward scale, profitability, and global competitiveness — making him one of the youngest professionals to rise from CFO to CEO in the industry.
Under Pankaj's leadership, Cosmo First has undergone significant transformation — expanding manufacturing capacities and global footprint, strengthening profitability and operational efficiencies, building strong brand visibility among investors and customers, and diversifying into high-growth sectors beyond films.
These efforts have positioned Cosmo First as a recognized player in the global packaging and specialty materials ecosystem, with strong visibility across media, investor communities, and industry platforms.
Known as a turnaround specialist, Pankaj’s leadership is rooted in data-driven decision-making, strategic agility, and a strong people-first approach. He believes in empowering teams, fostering innovation, and building a culture of accountability and continuous improvement. A certified Six Sigma Green Belt, he brings structured thinking and process excellence into business operations, ensuring scalability and resilience in a dynamic market environment.
Before joining Cosmo First, Pankaj held senior leadership roles at globally respected organizations:
These roles provided him with a strong foundation in financial management, strategic planning, and operational excellence across diverse industries and geographies — shaping his holistic approach to business leadership.
Beyond his executive role, Pankaj actively contributes to the industry ecosystem. He serves on the boards of the Organisation of Plastic Processors of India (OPPI), the Indian Flexible Packaging & Folding Carton Association (IFCA), and the Plastindia Foundation. A familiar face on television and in leading business publications, he is a regular speaker at global packaging and business forums, sharing insights on industry trends, innovation, and leadership.
A high achiever from early on, Pankaj's academic journey was marked by consistent distinction. He holds a Merit Certificate in Accounting from the Cambridge Foundation examination, as well as a Merit Certificate in Science from the Central Institute of General Knowledge Learning. He secured third position in the District-level English Essay Competition conducted by NCERT, and was awarded the Delhi State Scholarship in Sanskrit — early indicators of the intellectual curiosity and discipline that would define his professional career.
With a clear vision for the future, Pankaj continues to steer Cosmo First toward becoming a globally admired, innovation-led enterprise — scaling new-age businesses, accelerating digital and sustainable transformation, and unlocking long-term stakeholder value.
Mr. Pankaj Poddar, CEO, Cosmo Films received the "Young Business Leader Award" at the Dare to Dream Awards 2018, presented by Zee Business in association with SAP in October 2018
Mr. Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo First Limited won the award for 30 Most Inspiring CEO’s by Prime Insights Magazine.
Cosmo First Limited CEO, Mr. Pankaj Poddar was honoured with the “CEO With HR Orientation” by Zee Business and World HRD Congress in September 2019.
Mr. Pankaj Poddar, Group CEO, Cosmo First Limited, has been honoured with The Economic Times Leadership Excellence Award 2022 for the Manufacturing of Chemicals and Films.
