Hero MotoCorp Announces Leadership Evolution: Vikram Kasbekar To Continue As CTO And Harshavardhan Chitale Appointed As CEO

Hero MotoCorp, the world’s leading manufacturer of motorcycles and scooters, has recently announced significant changes to its top leadership team, signaling a new chapter in its growth and innovation journey. With Vikram Kasbekar continuing in his role as Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and the appointment of Harshavardhan Chitale as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), the company aims to strengthen its competitive edge in the fast-evolving mobility landscape.

Leadership Transition Milestones

The company’s leadership restructuring comes at a crucial time as Hero MotoCorp accelerates its vision to “Be the Future of Mobility.” The changes were formalized after the departure of Niranjan Gupta, who stepped down as CEO effective April 30, 2025, to pursue other opportunities. Vikram Kasbekar, a veteran with over two decades of service at Hero, will continue as CTO while also serving as Acting CEO in the transition phase, until the appointment of a permanent CEO.

Key Highlights of the Leadership Update

Vikram Kasbekar to continue as Hero MotoCorp’s CTO, with a strong legacy in Research & Development, Operations, Supply Chain, and Engineering.

Harshavardhan Chitale appointed as the new CEO, bringing fresh leadership to drive strategy and business expansion.

Kasbekar appointed as Acting CEO effective May 1, 2025, to guide the company through the transition period.

Executive Chairman Dr. Pawan Munjal emphasized the strategy of promoting internal talent coupled with fresh ideas to foster sustainable innovation.

Other senior management promotions include Ram Kuppuswamy elevated to Chief Operations Officer (COO) – Manufacturing and Ashutosh Varma appointed Chief Business Officer (CBO) for India Business Unit.

A Veteran’s Technological Vision Continues

Vikram Kasbekar has been an essential member of Hero MotoCorp since 2001, deeply involved in operational excellence, new model development, and global product planning. As CTO, he oversees the Jaipur-based Centre of Innovation and Technology (CIT), which has been instrumental in delivering a stream of next-generation motorcycles and scooters. His experience extends beyond technology into shaping strategies for sustainable manufacturing and global compliance standards, making him pivotal to Hero’s innovation and growth.

Harshavardhan Chitale: Steering Hero’s Next Growth Phase

The appointment of Harshavardhan Chitale as CEO marks a significant step towards strengthening Hero MotoCorp’s market leadership. Chitale will focus on sharpening competitive advantage, expanding market presence, and steering the iconic brand through emerging mobility trends such as electric vehicles (EVs) and digital transformation. His leadership is expected to build upon the company’s strong legacy while opening new avenues for growth in India and abroad.

Vision for Sustainable Innovation and Mobility Transformation

The leadership changes align with Hero MotoCorp's commitment to evolving mobility through sustainable innovation. The company recently empowered its Electric Vehicle & Emerging Mobility Business Unit (EMBU) to operate as an independent entity, leading efforts in the electric vehicle revolution. This strategic realignment positions Hero MotoCorp to better address future mobility needs and consumer preferences, reinforcing its position as a market pioneer.

Broader Leadership Enhancements

Ram Kuppuswamy’s expanded role as COO – Manufacturing will focus on excellence in plant operations and quality management.

Ashutosh Varma leading the India Business Unit as Chief Business Officer aims to accelerate growth and customer engagement in the highly competitive domestic market.

Jyoti Singh, elevated to Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer, will enhance human capital strategies supporting innovation and operational growth.

Statements From The Leadership

Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman of Hero MotoCorp, appreciated Niranjan Gupta’s pivotal role in strengthening the company’s financial resilience and strategic foundation during his tenure. He expressed confidence that Vikram Kasbekar’s extensive operational and engineering experience will ensure stability and growth during the leadership transition.

Vikram Kasbekar expressed honor in taking on the Acting CEO responsibility, reaffirming his commitment to steering the organization through this phase while focusing on innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence.

Outlook

These leadership updates underscore Hero MotoCorp’s forward-looking approach at a time where the global automotive and mobility sectors are undergoing rapid transformation. By combining technological depth with strategic business stewardship, the company is well-positioned to maintain its dominance in traditional segments while expanding aggressively into new mobility solutions.

Sources: Hero MotoCorp official release, Economic Times Auto, India TV News, Energetica India