The tenure of Natarajan Chandrasekaran as the chairman of Tata Sons marks a shift in corporate governance, as he became the first non-Parsi and professional executive to lead the Tata Group. Born in 1963 in Mohanur, India, he rose through the ranks of Tata Consultancy Services, eventually steering the conglomerate through significant legal challenges and leadership transitions.
Early Education and Career Trajectory
Educated at a Tamil Medium Government school in Mohanur, Chandrasekaran continued his academic pursuits at the Coimbatore Institute of Technology. He completed a Master of Computer Applications at the Regional Engineering College, Tiruchirappalli, in 1986. Joining Tata Consultancy Services in 1987, he served as chief operating officer and executive director before his appointment as chief executive officer on 6 October 2009.
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After becoming the chairman of Tata Sons, Chandrasekaran navigated complex internal disputes, including the removal of Cyrus Mistry in 2016. Legal proceedings concerning this leadership change reached the Supreme Court of India by 2020. Chandrasekaran announced that he would conclude his time as chairman at the end of his second term in February 2027, prompting the establishment of a selection committee.
Public Recognition and Professional Service
Beyond his corporate responsibilities, Chandrasekaran engaged with global policy platforms, chairing B20 India during the 2023 G20 presidency. He holds senior memberships in the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the British Computer Society. He received the Padma Bhushan for trade and industry in 2022 and was named Indian of the Year by CNN-News18 in 2014.
Fast facts
- Born: 1963, Mohanur, India
- Education: Coimbatore Institute of Technology; NIT Tiruchirappalli
- Key Role: Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Group
- Awards: Padma Bhushan (2022)
- Professional Membership: IEEE, British Computer Society
- Personal Interest: Marathon runner
Questions readers ask
When does Natarajan Chandrasekaran plan to step down as chairman?
He is scheduled to conclude his second term and step down in February 2027.
What is his educational background?
He earned a Bachelor's degree from Coimbatore Institute of Technology and a Master of Computer Applications from the National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli.
Achievements
- Educated at Coimbatore Institute of Technology and National Institute of Technology, Tiruchirappalli
