Key Points
- Gopal Vittal is promoted to Executive Vice-Chairman from MD & CEO.
- Shashwat Sharma is appointed as the new MD and CEO starting January 1, 2026.
- Airtel’s mobile service market share grew from 30% to 40%.
- Rakesh Bharti Mittal is moving to new board roles after nine years at Airtel.
- Q2 net profit jumped 168% year-on-year to ₹3,593 crore.
- Consolidated revenue rose 12% year-on-year to ₹41,473 crore.
Looma News
Bharti Airtel (Airtel) announced a management change on Monday, effective January 1, 2026. Gopal Vittal will step down as Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) to become Executive Vice-Chairman. Shashwat Sharma, who is currently the Chief Operating Officer, will take over as MD and CEO.
During Vittal’s 12 years as MD & CEO, Airtel expanded its services in mobile, B2B, home broadband, DTH, and digital areas. The company’s share in mobile services rose from 30% to 40%, even with strong competition. This growth also led to a five-fold increase in market value, surpassing $100 billion.
Board Changes
In a related change, Rakesh Bharti Mittal, who has been with Airtel for nine years, will leave to join the boards of Indus Towers and Bharti Hexacom. He will return to Airtel as a nominee on the Bharti Board right away.
Chairman’s Statement
Sunil Bharti Mittal, Chairman of Bharti Airtel, expressed his satisfaction with the leadership change plan, noting it offers both fresh ideas and continuity. He pointed out the strength within the management team, which has led to solid performance and results.
Financial Performance
Airtel also reported strong financial results for the second quarter ending September 30. The consolidated net profit shot up 168% year-on-year (YoY) to ₹3,593 crore, compared to ₹1,340.7 crore in the same quarter last year. Additionally, consolidated revenue grew by 12% YoY to ₹41,473 crore, up from ₹37,044 crore during the same period last year.
