Deepshikha Maan, Jadetimes Staff
D. Maan is a Jadetimes news reporter covering Asia
Noel Tata Succeeds Ratan Tata as Chairman of Tata Trusts
Following the passing of India's globally renowned industrialist, Ratan Tata, the Tata Group has appointed his half brother, Noel Tata, as the new chairperson of Tata Trusts. Tata Trusts, the philanthropic branch of the Tata Group, holds a 66% stake in Tata Sons, one of India’s largest business conglomerates with an annual revenue exceeding $100 billion.
A New Leader from the Tata Family
Noel Tata, 67, shares the same father, Naval Tata, with Ratan Tata. He has long been a key figure within the Tata ecosystem, serving on the boards of several Tata companies. His new role as chair of Tata Trusts comes with the responsibility of overseeing the charitable and philanthropic initiatives of the group. Noel also holds prominent positions within the Tata Group, including being the chairman of Tata International Limited, Voltas, Tata Investment Corporation, and the vice-chairman of Tata Steel and Titan Company Limited.
Leadership at Tata’s Retail and Trading Sectors
In addition to his roles within Tata Trusts, Noel Tata heads Trent Limited, Tata’s fashion and lifestyle retail division, which has flourished under his leadership since 2014. The company runs popular brands like Westside, Zudio, and Utsa. His tenure at Tata International from 2010 to 2021 saw the firm's revenue soar from $500 million to over $3 billion, showcasing his ability to guide the group's global trading and distribution activities.
Continuing the Legacy
Upon his election as the chairperson of Tata Trusts, Noel Tata expressed his deep honor and humility, pledging to continue the philanthropic efforts and developmental initiatives established by his brother. He emphasized the trust’s ongoing commitment to nation-building through its charitable work.
A Family Legacy in Business and Philanthropy
Noel Tata’s three children are also involved in the family business and philanthropic endeavors. His son, Neville, leads Star Bazaar, Tata’s supermarket chain, while his daughter Leah manages the Gateway brand under The Indian Hotels Company. Maya Tata, another of his daughters, works at Tata Digital.
The passing of Ratan Tata, who remained unmarried and had no direct heirs, had raised questions about succession within Tata Trusts. Though Ratan Tata retired from active leadership in Tata Sons in 2012, his influence within Tata Trusts continued until his passing. Noel Tata’s appointment ensures the continuation of the Tata family's leadership in both the business and philanthropic arms of the group.
