Kearney appoints Varun Arora as Managing Partner for Southeast Asia

Global strategy consultancy Kearney has named Varun Arora as the new Managing Partner for its Southeast Asia business.

Effective per the start of this year, Varun Arora will oversee Kearney’s Southeast Asia operations, which span key markets including Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Thailand. In his new role, he will be responsible for driving client impact, expanding market opportunities, and nurturing the next generation of consulting talent across the region.

The Southeast Asia unit, which Kearney established in 1990 with its entry into Singapore, supports clients across a wide spectrum of industries. These include technology, telecommunications, consumer goods, retail, healthcare, financial services, energy, automotive, transportation, and process industries. Kearney has during this time established itself as one of the leading strategy and management consulting firms in the region, mirroring its global standing.

A 17-year company member, Arora brings extensive experience in strategic growth and digital transformation to his new role. He most recently led the firm’s Communications, Media, and Technology practice in Southeast Asia – the largest practice in the region – as well as the Digital & Analytics practice at the Asia-Pacific level.

Commenting on the appointment, Shigeru Sekinada, Region Chair of Asia Pacific, said, “I am delighted to welcome Varun as the next leader of our Southeast Asia unit. With his deep expertise, collaborative leadership style, and vision for growth, I am confident that he will continue to propel Kearney’s success in this dynamic region by promoting a purpose-driven culture focused on enhancing societal well-being.”

“Southeast Asia remains a cornerstone of our Asia-Pacific growth strategy, and Varun’s leadership will ensure we continue to deliver exceptional results for our clients and our people.”

Arora succeeds Nithin Chandra, who during his term in the office led the Southeast Asia unit through record performance. Under his leadership, Kearney grew organically, opened its Philippines office in Manila in 2022, and expanded its Bangkok office in Thailand.