India is on the cusp of a significant leadership transition, as several prominent executives in major corporations prepare to retire or step down by FY26. Notable figures such as Suresh Narayanan, Chairman and Managing Director of Nestlé India, and CK Venkataraman, Managing Director of Titan, are among those who will be leaving their positions. This shift opens the door for fresh leadership, with Anshul Asawa poised to take over as CEO of Avenue Supermarts following the departure of Neville Noronha in early 2026.

Leadership Changes Across Major Firms

As the corporate landscape evolves, major sectors including telecom and automotive are also witnessing pivotal changes in leadership. Gopal Vittal, MD & CEO of Bharti Airtel, is set to retire in January 2026, while Takashi Nakajima will step into the role of President and CEO at Honda Cars India next month.

• Retiring Executives:
  • Suresh Narayanan (Nestlé India)
  • CK Venkataraman (Titan)
  • Pradeep Bakshi (Voltas)
  • Bharat Puri (Pidilite)
  • Neville Noronha (Avenue Supermarts)

Why the Shake-Up Now?

The simultaneous retirements have sparked discussions among experts. Some attribute it to coincidence, while others believe it reflects a strategic move by corporate boards to prepare for future challenges. Harish HV, Managing Director at ECube Investment Advisors, notes that this wave of changes combines both retirements and executives seeking new opportunities.

He emphasizes that boards are proactively positioning successors to navigate upcoming growth phases, ensuring their organizations are ready to adapt to ongoing technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences.

New Leaders, New Strategies

A prime example of this leadership evolution is Manish Tiwary, the new Managing Director of Nestlé India. Previously with Amazon, Tiwary is expected to enhance Nestlé’s digital strategy, particularly as direct-to-consumer brands challenge traditional fast-moving consumer goods. His focus will likely include expanding digital initiatives and exploring innovative channels like quick commerce.

Similarly, the incoming CEOs at Titan, Voltas, and DMart are anticipated to prioritize omnichannel strategies to spur growth. Sudanshu Vats, the designated MD of Pidilite, has expressed plans to diversify the company’s offerings, moving beyond adhesives to include sectors like paints.

Banking Sector Sees Leadership Overhaul

The banking industry is not exempt from this trend. Ajay Shah, founder and president of upGrad Rekrut, highlights that FY25 has been marked by numerous leadership transitions within the sector, each signifying a new chapter for these institutions. Key retirements include:

• Dinesh Khara, former SBI Chairman, succeeded by CS Setty.
• Shyam Srinivasan, former MD & CEO of Federal Bank, now succeeded by KVS Manian.
• Atul Kumar Goel and Shanti Lal Jain have stepped down from Punjab National Bank and Indian Bank, respectively, with new leadership in place.

The Future of Corporate India

As India braces for this wave of leadership changes, analysts suggest that these transitions could redefine the strategic direction of their respective companies. Organizations are not just preparing for change—they are gearing up for a future that demands innovation, agility, and a renewed focus on emerging market dynamics. The incoming leaders will likely play a crucial role in steering their firms toward sustained growth and success in a rapidly evolving landscape.