A wide ranging leadership transition is underway at Bharti Airtel as the company prepares for a new phase of management from the start of 2026.
Bharti Airtel on Thursday announced the appointment of Shashwat Sharma as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel India, effective January 1, 2026. Sharma, who is currently the CEO designate, will assume the role for a term of 5 years, subject to shareholder approval. He will also be classified as a key managerial personnel of the company.
The decision forms part of a broader senior leadership reshuffle approved by Airtel’s board at its meeting held on December 18, based on recommendations from the HR and Nomination Committee, the company said in an exchange filing.
Alongside Sharma’s appointment, the board approved the elevation of Gopal Vittal as Executive Vice Chairman. Vittal, who currently serves as Vice Chairman and Managing Director, will take on the new role as a whole time director from January 1, 2026, for a period of 5 years, subject to shareholder approval.
The board also cleared a series of changes across the finance and compliance functions. Somen Ray, who currently serves as Chief Financial Officer, will move into the role of Group Chief Financial Officer. Akhil Garg will take charge as Chief Financial Officer for Airtel India.
In addition, Rohit Krishan Puri has been appointed Company Secretary and Compliance Officer with effect from January 1, 2026. Pankaj Tewari will continue as Group Company Secretary, providing leadership and oversight at the group level.
Airtel said the board meeting commenced at 4.45 pm and concluded at 5.45 pm, during which all the appointments and role changes were formally approved.
The leadership changes signal a structured succession plan as Airtel strengthens its management framework across its India and group level operations.
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