# Noel Tata likely to lead search for Chandrasekaran successor

2026-08-13T16:03:11+00:00 | Business & Economy | Indian Opinion Desk

Corroboration: 1 independent outlet

Tata Trusts will soon begin the search for a successor to Tata Sons chairman N Chandrasekaran, who will leave on February 20, 2027, after completing his second term. The New Indian Express reports that Noel Tata is likely to head the five-member selection panel. The Sir Dorabji Tata Trust has approved the process, while the Sir Ratan Tata Trust could not pass a resolution because of a regulatory ban continuing since May. Under Article 118, three panel members will be nominated by the two major trusts, one will come from the Tata Sons board and one will be an independent outsider. Two sources cited by The New Indian Express identify Tata Steel chief TV Narendran as the leading possible successor. Tata Sons CFO Saurabh Agrawal is another option, but is seen as less likely.

## Coverage

- newindianexpress.com <https://www.newindianexpress.com/business/2026/Aug/13/tata-trusts-to-begin-search-for-chandras-successor-shortly-noel-likely-to-head-search-panel>
- newindianexpress.com <https://www.newindianexpress.com/business/2026/Aug/13/who-could-succeed-tata-sons-chair-n-chandrasekaran>

Tags: leadership change, N Chandrasekaran, Noel Tata, succession planning, Tata Sons succession, Tata Trusts
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