New Delhi, India, May 2026 — R. Mukundan, Managing Director and CEO of Tata Chemicals Limited, has been appointed as the President of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for 2026–27. He succeeds Rajiv Memani in the role, as CII announced its new office-bearers for the year.
Mukundan’s appointment reflects his long-standing leadership within Indian industry and his continued contribution to the country’s industrial, business, and sustainability agenda. His leadership comes at a time when CII is advancing its 2025–26 theme, “Accelerating Competitiveness: Globalisation, Inclusivity, Sustainability, Trust.”
Mukundan has been associated with Tata Chemicals Limited for over two decades and currently serves as its Managing Director. Over the years, he has held several key leadership roles within the company, including Executive Vice President, COO – Chemicals & Consumer Business, COO – Chemicals, and Vice President, contributing to the company’s business growth and operational leadership.
Before taking charge as Managing Director, he built a strong leadership foundation across the Tata Group. His career includes serving as General Manager at Tata AutoComp Limited, where he contributed to the automotive components business, and as Project Executive at The Indian Hotels Company Limited (IHCL), where he gained early experience in project and business operations.
Mukundan is also associated with TAS, the Tata Group’s leadership development and administrative services framework, reflecting his long-standing connection with the group’s broader leadership ecosystem. His experience spans chemicals, consumer business, automotive, hospitality, industrial operations, and corporate leadership.
He holds a DBA in Business Administration and Management from Xavier Institute of Management, Bhubaneswar, further strengthening his academic grounding in business leadership and management.
About Confederation of Indian Industry (CII)
The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) works to create and sustain an environment conducive to the development of India by partnering with industry, government, and civil society through advisory and consultative processes. For 130 years, CII has played a key role in shaping India’s development journey and strengthening Indian industry’s engagement in national development.
With an extensive network across India and globally, CII serves as a key reference point for Indian industry and the international business community. In India’s economic resurgence journey, CII facilitates the multifaceted contribution of Indian industry toward a prosperous, inclusive, and sustainable future.
Read Also : When HR “Produces Nothing”: A Response to Jennifer Sey’s Anti-HR Vision
The Fine Balance: Navigating Work, Life, and Mental Wellbeing
Mind the Leadership Gap – From Learning to Real-World Impact
How the Adecco Group is empowering its employees for the future of work
