Source The economics Times
NEW DELHI, December 18, 2025 — Bharti Airtel, India’s leading telecommunications service provider, today announced a major leadership restructuring. Shashwat Sharma, currently the CEO-designate, has been officially named the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel India.
The appointment, approved by the Board of Directors during a meeting on Thursday, will take effect on January 1, 2026, for a five-year term.
A Structured Transition
The move is part of a long-planned succession strategy. Gopal Vittal, who has led the company for the last 13 years, will transition into the role of Executive Vice Chairman.
In his new capacity, Vittal will provide broader oversight for the entire Bharti Airtel group and its global subsidiaries. He will focus on:
Group Strategy: Driving the long-term vision and future-proofing the organization.
Synergy Management: Harmonizing digital initiatives, network strategy, and procurement across geographies.
Mentorship: Continuing to groom the next generation of leadership within the firm.
“I am extremely pleased with the succession and transition of leadership at Airtel,” said Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Airtel. “Change and continuity will go hand in hand. I have no doubt both Gopal and Shashwat will continue to build on the momentum.”
Who is Shashwat Sharma?
Shashwat Sharma is a seasoned leader with a strong background in consumer marketing and operational excellence. An alumnus of IIM Ahmedabad and Delhi College of Engineering, Sharma joined Airtel in 2018.
Feature Details
Current Role CEO-designate (formerly COO)
Past Experience 13 years at Hindustan Unilever (HUL); led brands like Dove and Lakme
Key Achievements Spearheaded the #AirtelThanks program and led the DTH business
Education Computer Engineering (DCE), MBA (IIM-A)
Sharma has spent the last year working closely with Vittal as CEO-designate to ensure a seamless handover of the India business operations.
Broader Leadership Reshuffle
The board also announced several other key managerial changes effective January 1, 2026:
Soumen Ray: Currently CFO of Airtel India, will be elevated to Group Chief Financial Officer.
Akhil Garg: Currently Financial Controller, will take over as CFO of Airtel India, reporting to both Sharma and Ray.
Rohit Krishan Puri: Appointed as Company Secretary and Compliance Officer.
The restructuring comes at a time when Airtel’s India operations are expected to become effectively net debt-free in the near term, following the completion of its rights issue process and organic cash generation.
