Bharti Hexacom’s board has approved Kathikeyan Velu as CFO effective January 2026, succeeding Akhil Garg. Velu, a seasoned finance professional with over two decades of telecom experience, has been associated with Airtel since 2002. Garg’s resignation marks an internal movement within the Bharti Group.
Bharti Hexacom Limited has announced a key leadership transition, appointing Kathikeyan Velu as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) and Key Managerial Personnel effective January 1, 2026. This follows the resignation of current CFO Akhil Garg, who will step down on December 31, 2025, to take up a new role within the Bharti Group.
The appointment of Kathikeyan Velu reflects Bharti Hexacom’s focus on continuity and governance in leadership. Velu has held senior finance roles at Airtel, including B2C Controller and Group Financial Controller, bringing deep expertise in financial strategy and telecom operations. His appointment was recommended by the Nomination and Remuneration Committee and Audit Committee, underscoring a structured succession plan. Garg’s departure is part of an organizational reshuffle within the Bharti Group, ensuring smooth transition.
Notable updates
• Kathikeyan Velu appointed CFO and Key Managerial Personnel from January 1, 2026
• Velu has over 20 years of telecom finance experience, largely with Airtel
• Appointment approved by Bharti Hexacom’s board and committees
• Akhil Garg resigns as CFO effective December 31, 2025
• Transition highlights governance-driven succession planning and continuity in leadership
Major takeaway
Bharti Hexacom’s CFO transition underscores its governance-focused approach, ensuring financial leadership continuity while leveraging Velu’s expertise to drive growth in India’s competitive telecom sector.
Sources: Economic Times, Moneycontrol, InvestyWise