Rakesh Gaonkar – Sarla Aviation
View Detailed Executive Profile →Professional Overview
- Rakesh Gaonkar is the Founder and Chief Technology Officer (CTO) of Sarla Aviation, having started this role on October 1, 2023, marking a significant transition into aviation technology and innovation.
- Prior to establishing Sarla Aviation, Rakesh co-founded Dreiwelt and served as its Director from November 1, 2021, until February 1, 2024, contributing to advancements in their product offerings.
- Rakesh held the position of Team Lead - Loft Design Engineer at Lilium from November 1, 2018, to August 1, 2023, where involvement in the development of aircraft from concept to series production played a pivotal role in the organization’s aviation projects.
- During tenure at BMW Group from September 1, 2017, to May 1, 2018, Rakesh led the team responsible for the BMW 4 Series, overseeing the transition from concept to production, showcasing strong project management skills in the automotive sector.
- As Project Lead at Design Consulting GmbH from October 1, 2014, to November 1, 2018, contributions included overseeing automotive concept and series production projects, enhancing product design methodologies.
- Rakesh's experience also includes a role as Senior Digital Sculptor at Citroën from January 1, 2014, to September 1, 2014, focusing on Class A surfaces, demonstrating expertise in digital sculpting and design precision.
- At Changan Automobile European Designing Center, as a Surface Designer from November 1, 2013, to December 1, 2013, contributions to surface design reinforced technical skills in automotive aesthetics.
- Rakesh's early career includes working as a Class A Consultant for Mahindra & Mahindra from July 1, 2013, to August 1, 2013, providing consultancy on advanced design processes, reflecting adaptability across different vehicle designs.
- Involvement with Italdesign Giugiaro (Contract - Mazel Ingenieros) as a Surface Designer from December 1, 2011, to February 1, 2013, helped refine skills in surface design alongside a diverse team of designers.
- Rakesh's journey began at General Motors Design Studio as a Creative Digital Sculptor from April 1, 2010, to December 1, 2011, where foundational experience in automotive design was established, influencing future roles.
Professional Experience
| Company | Designation | Period |
|---|---|---|
| BMW Group | Team Lead - BMW 4 Series - Concept to Production | Sep 2017 – May 2018 |
| Design Consulting GmbH | Project Lead - Automotive Concept & Series Production | Oct 2014 – Nov 2018 |
| Dreiwelt | Director & Co-founder | Nov 2021 – Feb 2024 |
| Lilium | Team Lead - Loft Design Engineer | Concept to Series Production Aircraft | Nov 2018 – Aug 2023 |
| Changan Automobile European Designing Center s.r.l | Surface Designer | Nov 2013 – Dec 2013 |
| Mahindra & Mahindra | Class A Consultant | Jul 2013 – Aug 2013 |
| Citroën | Senior Digital Sculptor ( Class A - Alias ) | Jan 2014 – Sep 2014 |
| Italdesign Giugiaro, ( Contract - Mazel Ingenieros ) | Surface Designer | Dec 2011 – Feb 2013 |
| General Motors Design Studio | Creative Digital Sculptor | Apr 2010 – Dec 2011 |
| Sarla Aviation | Founder & CTO | Oct 2023 – Present |
Estimated Net Worth
Estimated Range: ₹0 – ₹1000+ Cr (approx. $0 – $120M+)
Based on publicly accessible filings, industry benchmarks, and leadership compensation patterns.
Executive Contact
Official Email: Via Sarla Aviation corporate communication desk.
Personal Contact: Not publicly disclosed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Rakesh Gaonkar's net worth?
Estimated ₹0 – ₹1000+ Cr (approx. $0 – $120M+).
How can I contact them?
Through Sarla Aviation's official communication channels.
Is this an official profile?
No — independently created using public data.
Disclaimer
This profile is created for general informational purposes. All details are based on publicly accessible information and independent research. While accuracy is prioritized, content may not always reflect the latest updates.
Nothing here should be interpreted as investment, financial, or legal advice. The individual featured has not authored or endorsed this profile.
Personal information is intentionally withheld. For official matters, please use formal communication channels associated with the respective organization.
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Last Updated: December 2025 · Published by Affluense AI (affluense.ai)