Reliance Industries Ltd (RIL), India’s most valuable company, has taken a significant step in its succession planning by elevating Anant Ambani to the role of Executive Director. The move, formalized through a shareholder notice and postal ballot, marks a shift from symbolic board presence to active executive leadership for the youngest Ambani sibling. With this appointment comes a compensation package ranging from ₹10 crore to ₹20 crore annually, along with a host of perks and a share in company profits.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of the development and what it signals for Reliance’s future.
Key Details of the Appointment
- Anant Ambani, 30, becomes the first among Mukesh Ambani’s three children to be appointed as Executive Director of Reliance Industries
- His compensation includes a fixed salary, allowances, and perquisites such as furnished accommodation or house rent allowance, utilities, travel concessions, and medical reimbursements
- He will also receive a commission based on the company’s net profits, in addition to the fixed pay
- The company will provide security arrangements and cover travel and lodging expenses for business trips, including those of his spouse and attendants
From Non-Executive to Executive: A Strategic Shift
- In 2023, Anant, along with his siblings Akash and Isha, joined the RIL board as non-executive directors
- As non-executive directors, they received no salary but were paid ₹4 lakh as sitting fees and ₹97 lakh each as profit commission
- Anant’s elevation to an executive role reflects his growing involvement in Reliance’s materials and renewable energy businesses
- The move is seen as part of Mukesh Ambani’s broader effort to ensure a smooth generational transition and avoid past succession disputes
Succession Planning in Motion
- Akash Ambani currently chairs Reliance Jio, while Isha Ambani serves on the boards of Reliance Retail and Jio Financial Services
- Anant’s new role places him at the helm of the group’s energy and sustainability ventures, aligning with Reliance’s long-term green energy ambitions
- The three siblings are working alongside professional managers, signaling a hybrid leadership model
Shareholder Approval and Governance
- Reliance has sought shareholder approval for Anant’s appointment through a postal ballot
- The company emphasized that the remuneration structure is in line with industry standards and subject to regulatory compliance
- The appointment reinforces Reliance’s commitment to structured governance and transparent succession
As Reliance continues to diversify and expand across telecom, retail, energy, and finance, Anant Ambani’s executive role is more than symbolic—it’s a signal of the next generation stepping into operational leadership with defined responsibilities and accountability.
Sources: Economic Times, Rediff Money, Deccan Chronicle, MSN India, Reliance Industries Shareholder Notice June 2025
