Tata Trusts Approve Third Five-Year Term for Tata Sons Chairman Chandrasekaran

Tata Trusts has approved a third five-year term for N Chandrasekaran as Chairman of Tata Sons, extending his leadership until 2032, sources confirmed to NDTV Profit. This decision marks a departure from the conglomerate's traditional retirement policy, allowing Chandrasekaran to continue beyond the customary age limit. Currently in his second term, set to conclude in 2027 when he turns 65, the extension underscores the Trusts' confidence in his strategic vision for the sprawling Tata Group.

The move, backed by Tata Trusts—which holds a 66% stake in Tata Sons—emphasises continuity in key areas such as digital transformation, sustainability, and global expansion. Chandrasekaran's leadership has been pivotal since his appointment in 2017, following the high-profile ouster of predecessor Cyrus Mistry. Under his stewardship, the group has navigated challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, while bolstering flagship companies like Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) and expanding into semiconductors and electric vehicles. The extension was not on the agenda during Friday's Tata Trusts meeting, indicating it was handled separately to ensure focused deliberation.

Chandrasekaran, a Tata veteran who joined the group in 1987 as a software programmer, rose to become TCS CEO in 2009, where he spearheaded its growth into a global IT powerhouse. His elevation to Tata Sons Chairman made him the first non-Parsi to hold the position in the group's 156-year history, founded by Jamsetji Tata in 1868. The Tata Group, with operations spanning over 100 countries and annual revenues exceeding $100 billion, encompasses diverse sectors from aviation to consumer goods, making stable leadership crucial amid economic uncertainties.

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This unprecedented extension to age 70 reflects evolving governance norms within family-led conglomerates, prioritising experience over rigid age policies. Industry analysts view it as a stabilising factor, potentially aiding ongoing initiatives like the Air India revival and semiconductor ventures. As Tata Group eyes ambitious growth targets, Chandrasekaran's prolonged tenure is expected to drive innovation and reinforce its philanthropic ethos through Tata Trusts' initiatives in education, health, and rural development.

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