Blue Dart Express has appointed R S Subramanian, as its next Managing Director, marking a leadership transition at one of India’s major express logistics companies.
Subramanian will assume office on 30 November 2026, subject to shareholder approval and other applicable statutory clearances. His appointment will be effective until 25 May 2030, according to the company.
The appointment was approved at Blue Dart’s board meeting held on 15 September 2026 and forms part of the company’s planned leadership succession.
Subramanian will succeed Balfour Manuel, who will step down as Managing Director at the close of business on 29 November 2026 after more than four decades with Blue Dart.
Subramanian currently serves as Senior Vice President, South Asia, and Managing Director of DHL Express India, and is a member of the DHL Express Asia Pacific Management Board.
His appointment also brings an executive familiar with Blue Dart to the company’s top leadership role. Subramanian has served as a non-executive director of Blue Dart since March 2019, giving him an understanding of the company’s operations and strategic priorities.
He brings more than 30 years of experience across product and service businesses, with expertise in strategy, customer management, marketing and organisational development.
Subramanian joined DHL Express India as Head of Sales and subsequently took on regional leadership responsibilities, including oversight of the South Asia cluster covering Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Maldives and Bhutan.
He was appointed Managing Director of DHL Express India in 2010. During his tenure, the company expanded its infrastructure and technology capabilities and strengthened its operational and people processes.
Before joining DHL, Subramanian spent 14 years with Hindustan Unilever, where he held positions spanning sales, marketing and export management.
He holds a degree in Industrial Engineering and a master’s degree in management from IIM Bangalore.
Subramanian has also held leadership positions in industry bodies. He currently serves as Vice Chairman of the Express Industry Council of India and is a member of the Advisory Council of the Indo-German Chamber of Commerce.
His move to Blue Dart comes with experience across express logistics, regional operations and cross-border business.
Balfour Manuel to take up strategic advisory role
Manuel’s departure from the Managing Director role marks a transition after 43 years with Blue Dart.
The company’s board and Nomination and Remuneration Committee have approved a waiver of his six-month notice period. Following his retirement from the Managing Director position, Manuel will serve as Senior Strategic Adviser to the Managing Director until 15 May 2027.
According to the company, Manuel has opted for early superannuation to facilitate a smooth succession process and attend to certain personal commitments.
He will also cease to be a director of Blue Dart Aviation, the company’s wholly owned subsidiary, effective 29 November 2026.
With Subramanian already familiar with Blue Dart through his board role and Manuel continuing in an advisory capacity for several months, the transition is structured to maintain continuity as the company moves into its next phase of leadership.
