Who is Noel Tata, the likely successor of Ratan Tata in the Tata Group?

Ratan Tata, Chairman Emeritus of Tata Sons and one of the most prominent industrialists, passed away on Wednesday, (Oct 9). His demise was confirmed by the chairman of Tata Sons, N Chandrasekaran.

“It is with a profound sense of loss that we bid farewell to Mr. Ratan Naval Tata, a truly uncommon leader whose immeasurable contributions have shaped not only the Tata Group but also the very fabric of our nation,” Chandrasekaran said in a statement shared on X.

Tata was known for his modest lifestyle. He had an estimated net worth of Rs 3,600 crore, with Tata Group being one of the most prominent companies in the country. 

After his demise, people are speculating who will be the doyen’s successor to continue his legacy. While N Chandrasekaran has already taken over Tata Sons as chairman, questions still arise about who will be the next Tata leader. Several Tata family members are leading different parts of the business, and Noel Tata is speculated to be the next contender, according to reports. However, the company has not given any confirmation yet.

Noel Tata is Ratan Tata’s half-brother and son of Naval Tata from his second wife, Simone Tata. He has been involved in the family business for 40 years and already holds a key position in the company, making him the likely successor.

Noel Tata is the Chairman of Trent, Tata International Limited, Tata Investment Corporation, and Voltas. He is also the Vice Chairman of Tata Steel and Titan Company Limited. Additionally, he is a Trustee on the Boards of Sir Ratan Tata Trust and Sir Dorabji Tata Trust.

He was the Managing Director of Tata International Limited from August 2010 to November 2021, during which the company’s turnover increased from $500 million to over $3 billion. He was also the key person who led to the expansion of Trent Limited from one store in 1998 to 700 stores at present.

Noel Tata got his education from Sussex University in the UK and did the International Executive Programme at INSEAD. He has three children, Maya, Neville, and Leah, who are also involved with the Tata Group.

(With inputs from agencies)