Youngevity International, a Chula Vista, California-based omni-direct lifestyle company, has hired Sharmila Chatterjee, Ph.D., as managing director for Russia and CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries.
“We are thrilled to have Dr. Chatterjee join our team,” said Vice President of International Sales & Operations Luke Taffuri. “Her previous successes and experience should help us address more of Russian’s $2 billion direct selling market.”
Chatterjee has been the treasurer and an active member of the Russian DSA, and has contributed to many articles pertaining to the retail and direct selling channel in the local press. Additionally, she has supported many projects aimed at promoting entrepreneurship in Russia and charity programs that are affiliated with Olympic sportsmen. Since 2004, she has worked for direct selling companies as a managing director in Russia, Kazakhstan and Ukraine, overseeing the different functional areas of business.
“Our executive team all recognized her credentials, track record, experience and knowledge of the direct selling business as the embodiment of the type of leadership qualities we sought for this extremely important position,” Taffuri said.
“I am very excited to have this opportunity to join Youngevity International as it continues to build upon its international growth strategy,” Chatterjee said. “In my opinion, Youngevity is a leader in its innovative approach to the direct sales business, and I felt this was an opportunity to join a company with a clear vision and strategy that combines e-commerce with the important elements of person-to-person selling. I look forward to building on my experiences and upon the commitment and foundation they have in place in this exciting market.”
Chatterjee holds a Ph.D. in biophysics from Moscow State University and an MBA from Kingston University Business School, U.K.
