Ratan Tata, the former chairman (chairman emeritus) of Tata Group, was a paragon of both business acumen and philanthropy in India. With a net worth estimated at Rs 3600 crore, Tata has led the conglomerate through decades of growth and diversification. Despite his wealth, he was known for his modest lifestyle and profound commitment to charitable causes through the Tata Trusts. Ratan Tata passed away on Wednesday, 9 October 2024 at Breach Candy Hospital in Mumbai at the age of 86.
Ratan Tata Death Funeral Last Rites Live Updates
The Curiosity Around Succession
Before his passing, Ratan Tata’s succession had become a subject of intense speculation as he had no children. Could anyone step into his shoes and oversee the vast Rs 34 lakh crore business empire of Tata Group the way he did? Succession planning is already in place at the Tata Group. N Chandrasekaran took charge as chairman of Tata Sons, the holding company, in 2017. There are others from the family heading different parts of the business, and who will likely take on future leadership roles.
The Front-Runner: Noel Tata
Among the potential leaders, Noel Tata emerges as a strong contender. Born from Naval Tata’s second marriage to Simone, Noel Tata is Ratan Tata’s half-brother. This familial bond places Noel Tata in a pivotal position for inheriting the Tata legacy.
Meet the Heirs: Maya, Neville, and Leah Tata
Noel Tata has three children who are seen as potential inheritors of the Tata legacy:
Maya Tata: Leading the Way
Maya Tata, 34, is making significant strides within the Tata Group. Educated at Bayes Business School and the University of Warwick, she has held pivotal roles at Tata Opportunities Fund and Tata Digital. She was crucial in launching the Tata Neu App, showcasing her strategic acumen and vision.
Neville Tata: A Business Leader
Neville Tata, aged 32, is deeply involved in the family business. Married to Manasi Kirloskar of Toyota Kirloskar Group descent, Neville heads Star Bazaar, a prominent hypermarket chain under Trent Limited. His leadership underscores his potential as a future leader within the Tata Group.
Leah Tata: Shaping Hospitality
Leah Tata, the eldest at 39, brings her expertise to the Tata Group’s hospitality sector. Educated at Spain’s IE Business School, Leah has contributed significantly to Taj Hotels Resorts and Palaces. She manages operations at Indian Hotel Company, enhancing the group’s footprint in the hospitality industry.
Ratan Tata steered Tata Group’s philanthropic efforts and business strategies. With Noel Tata and his children poised as frontrunners, the future leadership of Tata Group promises to uphold its legacy of innovation, integrity, and societal impact. The journey ahead will not only determine corporate leadership but also shape the future of one of India’s most iconic conglomerates.
