Noel Tata appointed new chairman of Tata Trusts

Noel Tata will succeed Ratan Naval Tata as chairman of Tata Trusts. Image: Amit Verma

Noel Naval Tata will succeed Ratan Naval Tata as chairman of Tata Trusts, the philanthropic entities that own the holding company of the Tata group companies. The trustees of various trusts that comprise the Tata Trusts met at a joint meeting held in Mumbai on Friday, October 11. It was unanimously decided to appoint Noel Tata as chairman of the trusts that constitute the Tata Trusts, and also designate him as chairman of the Tata Trusts.

“I am deeply honoured and humbled by the responsibility that has been cast on me by my fellow trustees. I look forward to carrying on the legacy of Mr Ratan N Tata and the founders of the Tata group. Founded more than a century ago, the Tata Trusts are a unique vehicle for undertaking social good. On this solemn occasion, we rededicate ourselves to carrying on our developmental and philanthropic initiatives, and continuing to play our part in nation-building,” Noel Tata, chairman, Tata Trusts, said in a statement.

Noel Tata, also the chairman of Tata Group's apparel retail business, Trent, gained widespread recognition as a potential candidate following Ratan Tata's retirement announcement. At 68, his appointment will align with the preference within the Parsi community for a family member to head the trusts.

Son of Simone Dumoyer, founder of Lakme and Naval H Tata, Noel Tata is said to be a mirror image of Ratan Tata in style and manner—seen as extremely approachable within the group and outside it—and has the ability to hold on to key people.

Noel Tata has been the only Tata (apart from Ratan Tata) in the Tata group. Ratan Tata’s younger brother by two years, Jimmy Tata had worked in various Tata companies; he retired in the 90s. He is also the son-in-law of Pallonji Mistry, who owns roughly 18 percent of Tata Sons.