Knight Frank India elevates Viral Desai as chief executive officer

Knight Frank India has elevated Viral Desai as chief executive officer, effective April 1, 2027. He will take charge of the company's India operations from Shishir Baijal, who is currently chairman and managing director. Desai has been with Knight Frank since 2007 and currently serves as senior executive director, transactions. He oversees the company's Occupier Strategy & Solutions (OSS), Industrial & Logistics, Capital Markets and Retail Agency businesses. He is also an International Partner at Knight Frank and a member of the Group Strategy Board. Desai will have oversight of all service lines at Knight Frank India after taking over as CEO. The company said the transition period will involve close collaboration between Desai and Baijal ahead of the leadership change. Commenting on the appointment, Baijal said, “Viral has been a key part of Knight Frank India’s growth and has consistently demonstrated his ability to build businesses, develop strong teams and deliver for our clients.” He added, “His leadership qualities, market standing and strong client relationships give me great confidence in his ability to lead Knight Frank India.” Desai said, “I am honoured to take on the responsibility of leading Knight Frank India. I have had the privilege of being part of the firm for nearly two decades, and I have seen first-hand the strength of our platform, the quality of our people and the trust we have built with our clients.” He added that his focus would be on strengthening the company's market position, client relationships and businesses across the country. Craig Shute, CEO, Asia Pacific, said India is among Knight Frank's significant businesses globally and that Desai's experience across the Indian market and the firm's international network would be relevant to his new role. Desai will formally assume the CEO position on April 1, 2027.