Air India, the national carrier now under the ownership of the Tata Group, has announced a significant appointment to its leadership team. Effective April 1, 2024, Ravindra Kumar G.P. will step into the Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO) role, taking over from Dr. Suresh Dutt Tripathi, who is retiring. Kumar’s appointment is strategic as Air India continues its transformation journey under the Tata Group’s stewardship.
Ravindra Kumar brings a wealth of experience to Air India, having previously held the position of President & CHRO at Tata Motors Limited since 2018. His career spans various prestigious roles, including a significant stint at General Electric Company, where he served as CHRO for South Asia for the last four years. Kumar’s expertise in human resources is expected to play a pivotal role in steering Air India through its next phase of growth and transformation.
Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD of Air India, expressed enthusiasm for Kumar’s joining, emphasizing his crucial role in the airline’s ongoing transformation. Wilson also took the opportunity to commend the outgoing CHRO, Suresh Dutt Tripathi, for his invaluable contributions, especially during the critical period following Air India’s privatization. Tripathi’s efforts have been instrumental in navigating the airline through its initial transition phase under Tata Group’s ownership.
Kumar’s educational background includes a Master’s degree in Human Resources from the Tata Institute of Social Sciences and a Bachelor’s degree from Bangalore University, equipping him with a solid foundation to lead Air India’s HR functions. His appointment is seen as a strategic move to bolster the airline’s leadership team as it embarks on a comprehensive transformation to improve operational efficiency, customer service, and overall competitiveness in the global aviation market.
This leadership transition at Air India is part of the broader efforts by the Tata Group to revitalize the airline, focusing on enhancing operational efficiencies, expanding its network, and improving customer service standards to regain its position as a leading international carrier.