Bharti Airtel has revealed plans to appoint Shashwat Sharma, its current Chief Operating Officer, as the new Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2026.

In a parallel move, veteran leader Gopal Vittal, who has steered the telecom giant for twelve years as MD & CEO, will step into the role of Vice Chairman. This carefully orchestrated succession plan also includes Vittal joining the Airtel Africa Plc Board, where he will spearhead group-wide initiatives in crucial areas including network strategy, digital transformation, procurement, and talent management.

During the transition period, Shashwat, who has been named CEO designate, will assume control of the company’s consumer business operations. Vittal will serve as a mentor to ensure a seamless leadership transition.

Vittal’s twelve-year tenure has been marked by significant achievements:

• Expanded mobile services revenue market share from 30% to 40%
• Drove a five-fold increase in market capitalization, surpassing $100 billion
• Strengthened the organization’s digital capabilities
• Enhanced customer-centric operations

Chairman Sunil Mittal expressed confidence in the succession plan, stating, “Airtel, India’s foremost corporate entity, has had a distinguished record of well thought out structured succession planning.” He emphasized that the timing is optimal for this leadership transition, ensuring both change and continuity.

To facilitate a smooth transition, Vittal will divide his time between Delhi and Bangalore while maintaining an extensive travel schedule to provide comprehensive leadership across the organization.

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The announcement reflects Airtel’s commitment to planned succession and strategic growth as it positions itself for the next phase of development in India’s dynamic telecom sector.

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