Keva (formerly S H Kelkar and Company Limited) announced the passing of its chairman, Ramesh Vinayak Vaze. Vaze was a prominent figure in India’s fragrance and flavour industry and played a key role in transforming SHK into a leading India-origin fragrance and flavour company with a global presence. He joined the company’s Board in 1981 and held several leadership positions, including managing director. Since 2019, he had served as the non-executive chairman, providing strategic guidance and mentoring the company’s leadership team.
Four Decades of Leadership at SHK
Vaze’s association with SHK spanned more than four decades. As a master perfumer and industry veteran, he contributed significantly to the company’s growth, product development and expansion. Under his leadership and guidance, SHK evolved from a local fragrance business into a globally recognised fragrance and flavour company. He also helped strengthen the organisation’s focus on innovation, quality and technical capabilities.
Contribution to Fragrance Innovation
Vaze played an important role in advancing SHK’s manufacturing and innovation capabilities. One notable milestone came in 1994, when the company introduced India’s first automated fragrance compounding plant. The development strengthened SHK’s ability to manufacture fragrances at scale while supporting consistency and quality across its products. Vaze placed strong emphasis on talent development and knowledge building, helping create capabilities that supported SHK’s long-term growth.
A Lasting Legacy
Vaze’s contribution extends beyond his leadership roles at SHK. His work helped shape the company’s approach to fragrance and flavour innovation, manufacturing excellence and talent development. As reported by stockssena.com, his association with the company and the wider industry has left a lasting legacy as SHK continues to expand its global fragrance and flavour business.
