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Noel Tata, Ratan Tata’s half-brother, has been appointed chairman of Tata Trusts, solidifying his position as the new leader of the Tata Group.
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Noel Tata is likely to influence key appointments on the boards of Tata Sons and operating companies, with potential changes starting at the Trusts level.
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Noel Tata may join the board of Tata Sons, potentially as a representative of Tata Trusts, giving him greater control over strategic decisions.
After Ratan Tata’s passing, Noel Tata swiftly took over as chairman of Tata Trusts, which holds 66% stake in Tata Sons. This move has been welcomed by Prime Minister Modi, who offered condolences to Noel Tata. With the support of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, which holds an 18.5% stake in Tata Sons, Noel Tata is poised to exert greater influence over the group’s strategic decisions.
Noel Tata’s appointment is expected to bring changes to the boards of Tata Sons and operating companies. Sources suggest that he will gradually place his loyalists in key positions as vacancies arise. TVS Motor’s Venu Srinivasan and former bureaucrat Vijay Singh, who sit on both Tata Trusts and Tata Sons boards, will likely play key roles in conveying Noel Tata’s decisions.
As chairman of Tata Trusts, Noel Tata has significant powers to shape the group’s future. The Trusts’ amended Articles of Association empower them to intervene in case of issues, ensuring stability and control. With the support of the Shapoorji Pallonji Group, Noel Tata is well-positioned to drive his agenda.
Noel Tata’s focus will likely be on the dozen companies under the Tata Group, including TCS, Tata Power, Air India, and Indian Hotels Company. Current Chairman N Chandrasekaran, who heads key operating companies, may see changes in his role as Noel Tata asserts his influence.
