Bharti Airtel names Shashwat Sharma as MD & CEO of Airtel India

Bharti Airtel on Thursday announced a series of senior leadership changes, including the appointment of Shashwat Sharma as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Airtel India, effective January 1, 2026.

Sharma, who is currently the CEO-designate, will take over the top role for a five-year term, subject to shareholder approval. He will also be designated as a key managerial personnel of the company.

The appointment is part of a broader leadership reshuffle approved by Airtel’s board at its meeting held on December 18, following recommendations from the HR and Nomination Committee, the telecom giant said in an exchange filing.


Also Read | Bharti Airtel names Soumen Ray as group finance chief

Alongside Sharma’s elevation, the board has approved the appointment of Gopal Vittal as Executive Vice Chairman. Vittal, who currently serves as Vice Chairman and Managing Director, will take on the new role as a whole-time director from January 1, 2026, for a period of five years, subject to shareholder nod, as well.

The board also cleared changes in the finance and compliance functions.

Somen Ray, currently the Chief Financial Officer, will become Group Chief Financial Officer, while Akhil Garg will take charge as Chief Financial Officer for Airtel India.

In addition, Rohit Krishan Puri has been appointed Company Secretary and Compliance Officer with effect from January 1, 2026.

Pankaj Tewari will continue in his role as Group Company Decretary, providing leadership and oversight at the group level.

Airtel said the board meeting, which began at 4.45 pm and concluded at 5.45 pm, formally approved the appointments.