Transformation of Tata Group Amid Ratan Tata’s Leadership: Tata Group Shares in Focus

Ratan Naval Tata, a revered figure in the business world, passed away on Wednesday, October 09, 2024  night at a Mumbai hospital at the age of 86. Despite overseeing over 30 companies in more than 100 countries, Tata led a modest life and never sought a billionaire spotlight.

Ratan Tata joined the family business after earning a B.S. in architecture from Cornell University in 1962. He began his career on the shop floor, gaining hands-on experience across various Tata Group enterprises.

In 1971, he became director-in-charge of National Radio and Electronics Co. (Nelco), and ten years later, he was appointed chairman of Tata Industries. In 1991, he succeeded JRD Tata, as chairman of the Tata Group.

Under Ratan Tata’s leadership, the Tata Group evolved from its origins as a small textile and trading company in 1868 into a global powerhouse with diverse operations in sectors such as steel, automobiles, software, and airlines. He led Tata Sons for over two decades, spearheading aggressive expansion and high-profile acquisitions, which comprised Tetley Tea for $431.3 million in 2000, Corus Group for $11.3 billion, and Jaguar Land Rover for $2.3 billion.

In December 2012, Ratan Tata stepped down as chairman of Tata Sons, passing the baton to his then-deputy, Cyrus Mistry. However, differences over Mistry’s leadership led to his removal in October 2016, marking a pivotal moment as it ended the first non-family member’s tenure as chairman. Tata, a significant shareholder, had clashed with Mistry on key decisions, including the controversial discontinuation of the loss-making Nano project.

After Mistry’s departure, Tata served as interim chairman until January 2017, when Natarajan Chandrasekaran was appointed as the new chairman. Tata then took on the role of emeritus chairman of Tata Sons.

In recent years, Tata has focused on supporting young entrepreneurs and investing in tech-driven startups. Through his investments and RNT Capital Advisors, he has backed over 30 startups, including Ola Electric, Paytm, Snapdeal, Lenskart, and Zivame.

Timeline of Key Events in Ratan Tata’s Life:

• 1955: At 17, departs for Cornell University to study architecture and engineering.
• 1962: Graduates with a Bachelor of Architecture degree.
• 1962: Joins Tata Group as an assistant in Tata Industries; undergoes training at Tata Motors.
• 1963: Participates in a training program at Tata Steel.
• 1965: Appointed as a technical officer in Tata Steel’s engineering division.
• 1969: Serves as resident representative for Tata Group in Australia.
• 1971: Becomes director-in-charge of National Radio and Electronics (Nelco).
• 1974: Joins the board of Tata Sons as a director.
• 1975: Completes the Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School.
• 1981: Appointed Chairman of Tata Industries, transforming it into a promoter of high-tech businesses.
• 1983: Develops the Tata strategic plan.
• 1986-1989: Serves as Chairman of Air India.
• March 25, 1991: Succeeds JRD Tata as Chairman of Tata Sons and Tata Trusts.
• 1991: Initiates restructuring of the Tata Group amid economic liberalization.
• 2000 onwards: Led significant growth and globalization of Tata Group, marked by key acquisitions.
• 2008: Launches the Tata Nano, a project reflecting his vision.
• December 2012: Steps down as Chairman of Tata Sons after 50 years, becoming Chairman Emeritus.

Performance of Tata Group Shares

Let us  now check out the performance of Tata Group shares as of October 10, 2024

Note: The above-mentioned Tata Group share price data are as of October 10, 2024, at 10:25 AM.

Disclaimer: This blog has been written exclusively for educational purposes. The securities mentioned are only examples and not recommendations. It is based on several secondary sources on the internet and is subject to changes. Please consult an expert before making related decisions.