In a strategic move that has caught the attention of the Indian business landscape, Flipkart, the homegrown e-commerce giant, has appointed Anuj Rathi as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Cleartrip, the popular travel platform. This development marks Rathi’s second innings at Flipkart, where he previously worked as a Product Manager between 2010 and 2012. Let’s delve into the fascinating journey of Anuj Rathi and the implications of his appointment.
The Rise of Anuj Rathi
1. Early Days and Education
Anuj Rathi, an alumnus of IIT Kanpur, has always been passionate about technology and innovation. His journey began with a strong foundation in aeronautical sciences, but his career trajectory soon took an exciting turn.
2. Flipkart Stint
Rathi’s first association with Flipkart dates back to the early 2010s. During his initial tenure, he contributed significantly to product management, playing a pivotal role in shaping the company’s offerings. His experience at Flipkart laid the groundwork for his future endeavors.
3. Swiggy and Beyond
After leaving Flipkart, Rathi explored other avenues. His journey led him to Swiggy, one of India’s leading food delivery platforms. Over seven years at Swiggy, he honed his skills, navigated the dynamic food-tech landscape, and contributed to Swiggy’s growth story.
4. Jupiter Interlude
In September 2023, Rathi joined Jupiter, a fintech startup, as its Chief Product and Marketing Officer. Although his stint at Jupiter was brief, it added valuable insights to his repertoire.
5. Cleartrip’s New Captain
Now, as the CEO of Cleartrip, Rathi faces exciting challenges. Cleartrip, known for its user-friendly interface and seamless travel booking experience, has been a trusted companion for travelers across India. Rathi steps into the shoes of Ayyappan R, the outgoing CEO, who spent over 11 years at the Bengaluru-based company.
6. Restructuring at Flipkart
Rathi’s appointment is part of a broader restructuring at Flipkart. The company has witnessed several top executives departing recently. Prabh Simran Singh and Sankalp Mehrotra are the latest additions to this list. These changes coincide with Walmart (Flipkart’s parent company) assessing the right time for Flipkart’s initial public offering (IPO). The growth trajectory of Flipkart and its digital payment arm, PhonePe, continues to excite investors and industry observers.
7. The Road Ahead
As Rathi takes the helm at Cleartrip, he inherits a legacy of innovation and customer-centricity. His leadership will shape the company’s future, especially in a post-pandemic world where travel and tourism are gradually rebounding. Cleartrip’s loyal user base eagerly awaits the next chapter under Rathi’s guidance.
In conclusion, Anuj Rathi’s journey—from Flipkart to Swiggy, Jupiter, and now Cleartrip—reflects the dynamism of India’s tech ecosystem. As he steers Cleartrip toward new horizons, we can expect exciting developments in the travel industry.