The Tata Group faces internal turmoil as two trustees resign shortly after the appointment of Noel Tata’s daughters, Maya Tata and Leah Tata, to the Board of Trustees of Sir Ratan Tata Industrial Institute (SRTII). This development, while seen as a preparation for larger roles for Noel Tata’s children, has led to discontent within the organization.
Maya and Leah Tata’s New Roles
Maya Tata, 36, and Leah Tata, 39, daughters of Noel Tata, have recently been inducted into SRTII, a key subset of the Sir Ratan Tata Trust, one of the principal shareholders of Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group. Their inclusion replaces former trustees Arnaz Kotwal and Freddy Talati, who resigned amid reported internal disagreements.
Prelude to Larger Roles
Their involvement in smaller Tata Trusts boards is seen as a stepping stone towards joining the more significant Sir Ratan Tata Trust and Allied Trusts, and Sir Dorabji Tata Trust and Allied Trusts. Noel Tata, who became chairman of Tata Trusts in October 2024, seems to be positioning his children for prominent roles within the Tata Group’s expansive structure.
Trustee Discontent and Resignation
Arnaz Kotwal, one of the outgoing trustees, expressed dissatisfaction over her resignation process. In a letter addressed to her fellow trustees, Kotwal highlighted the lack of direct communication from the board, revealing that her resignation was facilitated through a third party, involving Burgess Taraporewala, an executive at Tata Trusts, and Siddharth Sharma, the CEO.
This episode underscores the complex dynamics within Tata Trusts as the group navigates leadership transitions and prepares for future challenges.
Conclusion
The elevation of Maya and Leah Tata signals a new chapter for the Tata family, but the friction caused by these changes suggests that the road ahead may involve further internal adjustments. As Noel Tata continues to steer the Trusts, the focus remains on how these leadership shifts will impact the Tata Group’s future.
