Bharti Group founder Sunil Bharti Mittal recently shared insights into the future leadership of his sprawling empire, confirming that the next generation of the Mittal family is actively being groomed for significant roles. Mittal indicated that while succession wasn't a primary focus a few years ago, plans are now firmly in place, with visible changes expected within four to five years.
The Next Generation's Roles Emerge
Mittal spoke of his sons, Sharvin and Kavin, his daughter Eiesha Bharti Pasricha, and his nephews, Zubin and Ramit. Each is carving out distinct paths within and outside the core Bharti businesses:
- Sharvin Bharti Mittal: Currently serves as co-chair of Airtel Africa alongside Gopal Vittal and holds a position on the Airtel Money board. He is also involved in international ventures, including satellites, and manages his own investment fund. Mittal described him as a "solid, strong, stable hand" capable of handling critical enterprise aspects.
- Kavin Bharti Mittal: Identified as a technologist, Kavin previously founded Hike, a unicorn startup that eventually ceased operations. His current focus is on deep tech and solving complex issues, bringing an entrepreneurial and technical skill set to the family's interests.
- Eiesha Bharti Pasricha: With her husband, Sharan Pasricha, Eiesha runs a highly successful hospitality business. Their portfolio includes over 200 hotels globally, managing multiple brands in the sector.
- Zubin Mittal (Son of Rajan Bharti Mittal): Zubin is actively involved in Airtel Finance and is assisting with Haier, a new investment in consumer appliances. This role offers him training and experience in developing new business segments.
- Ramit Mittal (Son of Rakesh Bharti Mittal): Ramit leads Gourmet Investments, a multi-brand hospitality platform that includes well-known names such as PizzaExpress, Chili's American Grill & Bar, PF Chang's, and Olive Garden.
Mittal emphasized that the family operates as a "family in business, not a family business," highlighting their diverse ventures and independent development paths.
Leadership Beyond the Family
Beyond the direct family, Mittal also addressed the broader succession within Airtel and its ecosystem. He lauded the "very fine minds and talent" already in leadership positions. Gopal Vittal has ascended to executive vice-chair, with Shashwat Sharma taking the helm in India and Sunil Taldar leading operations in Africa. Mittal noted that even without family as shareholders, Airtel is robust enough to run effectively with a strong board, though he acknowledged the importance of anchor shareholders during crises.