With the passing of Ratan Tata, the $165 billion Tata Group is at a pivotal juncture as it seeks a new leader.

Noel Tata, the half-brother of Ratan Tata, is seen as a strong contender to take over the top post of Chairman at Tata Trusts, which holds a 66% stake in the group’s holding company, Tata Sons.

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Noel Tata, currently the Chairman of Trent, Voltas, Tata Investment Corporation, and Tata International, also serves as the Vice Chairman of Tata Steel and Titan.

His presence on the board of the Sir Ratan Tata Trust further solidifies his position as a potential successor.

This role, by virtue of its influence over Tata Sons, will allow the new Chairman to steer the group through ongoing global and domestic challenges.

Despite the familial ties, the Tata Group is considering multiple candidates. Mehli Mistry, a director of the Meherji Pallonji Group and a cousin of the late Cyrus Mistry, is also in contention.

As Tata Sons Chairman, N Chandrasekaran, who has successfully led the group post-Cyrus Mistry's exit, is not on the board of Tata Trusts, the decision remains uncertain.

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The Tata Group, which generated over $165 billion in revenue in 2023-24, is facing challenges due to the global economic downturn and pressures on key businesses like TCS, Tata Steel, and Tata Motors. Whoever takes the reins will need to navigate these issues with a clear vision for the future.

With Noel Tata’s extensive experience and presence in multiple group companies, he stands out as a strong candidate to maintain the legacy and drive the group’s future growth.