The development marks a significant change of guard at India's most prominent 'classic' motorcycle brand.
10 Feb 2025 | 13924 Views | By Angitha Suresh
In a significant leadership transition announced today, Eicher Motors Limited (EML) has appointed Siddhartha Lal as its new Executive Chairman, marking the end of S. Sandilya's 25-year tenure as Chairman. The appointment is particularly noteworthy given Lal's instrumental role in transforming Royal Enfield from a struggling motorcycle division into a ...
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In a significant leadership transition announced today, Eicher Motors Limited (EML) has appointed Siddhartha Lal as its new Executive Chairman, marking the end of S. Sandilya's 25-year tenure as Chairman. The appointment is particularly noteworthy given Lal's instrumental role in transforming Royal Enfield from a struggling motorcycle division into a global powerhouse in the mid-size motorcycle segment.
Lal, who has been serving as Managing Director and CEO of Eicher Motors, is widely credited with orchestrating one of the most remarkable turnarounds in Indian automotive history. Under his leadership, Royal Enfield evolved from a troubled brand to become a cultural icon and significant player in the global motorcycle market. Now, after more than 25 years at EML in various capacities, he will take on an expanded role focusing on the company's strategic direction.
In his new position as Executive Chairman, Lal will concentrate on shaping EML's long-term vision, driving consumer insights, brand development, and technology adoption while also mentoring the next generation of leaders. His proven track record in brand revival and business transformation positions him well for this strategic role.
The company has also appointed Vinod Aggarwal as Vice Chairman (Non-Executive), while B. Govindarajan has been named as the new Managing Director. Govindarajan, who has been with Eicher for nearly three decades, will retain his position as CEO of Royal Enfield. Aggarwal will continue his role as MD and CEO at VE Commercial Vehicles, EML's joint venture with the Volvo Group.
The board restructuring also includes the addition of two new independent directors - Ira Gupta, an HR advisory expert with 27 years of experience including leadership roles at Microsoft India and GlaxoSmithKline, and Arun Vasu, the third-generation leader of the TTK family business who brings extensive entrepreneurial experience. These appointments come as Manvi Sinha concludes her tenure as an Independent Director on February 12, 2025.
In acknowledging Sandilya's legacy, Lal highlighted his predecessor's instrumental role in transforming Eicher Motors into a leading commercial vehicle player in India and developing markets, while also supporting Royal Enfield's remarkable transformation under Lal's leadership.
The leadership changes come at a time when Eicher Motors continues to show strong financial performance, with the company recording a total income of INR 16,536 crores (approximately USD 2.01 billion) for FY '24, while its joint venture VECV reported revenues of INR 21,459 crores (approximately USD 2.58 billion) in the same period.