The Tata Trusts, which oversee the significant operations of India's Tata Group valued at $180 billion, have welcomed Neville Tata, aged 33, onto the board of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust (SDTT). This move follows the recent departure of trustee Mehli Mistry and highlights a generational shift within the Trust. With Neville's induction, three members of the Tata family now serve on the boards of the two primary Trusts, including the Sir Ratan Tata Trust (SRTT). This consolidation of authority under Noel Tata, Neville’s father, aims to usher in younger leadership into what has historically been a board dominated by senior members.
Neville Tata has stepped into a vital role in the Tata lineage, currently leading Trent Hypermarket, known for its Star Bazaar stores. He also holds positions on several smaller Tata Trusts, such as the JRD Tata Trust and Tata Medical Centre Trust. His induction into the SDTT is seen as a significant move towards a more prominent future role within Tata Sons, the holding company for the Tata Group. The SDTT board has appointed Neville for a term of three years, effective November 12, with unanimous approval required for trustee appointments.
While Neville's appointment was initially discussed by the SRTT board, the proposal was not passed. Additionally, Bhaskar Bhat, a longtime veteran of the Tata Group, has also joined the SDTT board alongside Neville. This expansion now gives the SDTT board a total of seven trustees, with Noel Tata being the only permanent trustee among them.
Neville is the youngest of Noel Tata’s three children and has been involved with Trent since completing his education at Bayes Business School in London. He is married to Manasi Tata, who is vice-chairperson at Toyota Kirloskar Motor, and they have two children. Known for his low profile, Neville has maintained a media-shy persona, although he is actively involved in Tata Group's annual leadership summits. His elder sisters, Leah and Maya, are also making strides within the Tata Group, holding positions at Indian Hotels and Tata Digital, respectively, and contributing to smaller Tata Trusts as well.
The induction of Neville Tata into the Tata Trusts marks a pivotal moment not only for his personal journey but also for the future governance of an institution integral to India's business landscape. As the Tata Group prepares for continued evolution, the focus on youth and succession planning reflects its commitment to adapting while honoring its rich legacy.