STL Networks Appoints Chandrasekhara Rao Battula as Interim CEO

Jyoti Rathi - Kolkata Bureau Jun 11, 2026 1,500 Views

STL Networks has appointed industry veteran Chandrasekhara Rao Battula as Interim CEO, effective June 10, 2026. He succeeds Pankaj Malik, who is stepping down to facilitate a three-month leadership transition. Battula, formerly of Invenia, brings extensive expertise in telecommunications and large-scale infrastructure projects to the role.

STL Networks Limited has officially announced a significant leadership transition, appointing Chandrasekhara Rao Battula as the company’s new Interim Chief Executive Officer and Whole Time Director. The move comes as the organization prepares for a period of operational continuity following the resignation of former CEO Pankaj Malik, effective June 10, 2026.

According to regulatory filings submitted to the National Stock Exchange (NSE) and BSE, the board approved Battula’s appointment for a one-year term, subject to shareholder approval. To facilitate a stable handover, Malik will continue to serve the company for a three-month transition period, concluding on September 10, 2026.

Strategic Leadership Transition

Chandrasekhara Rao Battula brings over 23 years of extensive experience to the leadership role, with a professional background spanning the telecommunications, government, public sector, and defense industries. Before his appointment at STL Networks, Battula was associated with Invenia, where he spearheaded system integration and sales initiatives. His career also includes significant tenures at Ericsson India Limited, UTStarcom, Reliance Infocomm, and previous roles within Sterlite Technologies Limited.

The leadership change coincides with a broader reorganization of the company's board-level committees. As part of the transition, Battula has been appointed to the Stakeholders’ Relationship Committee, the Risk Management Committee, the Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Committee, and the Authorization and Allotment Committee, filling the positions previously held by Malik.

Official Corporate Statements

In its official communication, STL Networks confirmed that the appointment was based on the recommendation of the company's Nomination and Remuneration Committee. The firm noted that Battula’s expertise in managing complex technology programs—such as those involving Pilot DC, PGCIL, and the recent J&K NOC operations for the Bharat Net project—was a decisive factor in his selection.

"The Board at its meeting held on June 10, 2026, approved the appointment of Mr. Chandrasekhara Rao Battula as an Additional Director and Interim Chief Executive Officer," the company stated in its regulatory filing. The documentation further clarified that Battula holds no familial relationships with existing directors or key managerial personnel within the company and has not been debarred from holding directorial office by any regulatory authority.

Why It Matters

For investors and stakeholders, this leadership change is a pivotal development in the company's efforts to maintain momentum in its core infrastructure and network integration projects. With the telecommunications landscape in India rapidly evolving, particularly regarding 5G and digital infrastructure, the appointment of an interim leader with deep experience in large-scale government and public sector engagements is intended to ensure project stability and operational excellence during this transition phase.

Key Facts at a Glance

New Leadership: Chandrasekhara Rao Battula appointed as Interim CEO and Whole Time Director for a one-year term.
Transition Period: Outgoing CEO Pankaj Malik will remain with the company for three months, until September 10, 2026, to ensure business continuity.
Professional Background: Battula possesses over 23 years of experience in telecommunications and systems integration, including prior roles at Ericsson and Sterlite Technologies.
Governance Changes: Battula has been integrated into key board committees, including Risk Management and Sustainability/CSR.

FAQ

Who is Chandrasekhara Rao Battula?

He is a veteran professional with over 23 years of experience in the telecommunications and public sector, formerly leading system integration at Invenia.

What is the duration of the interim appointment?

The appointment is for a term of one year, effective from the date of the allotment of his Director Identification Number.

How does this affect ongoing STL Networks projects?

The company has initiated a three-month transition period with the outgoing CEO to ensure that all ongoing operations and project timelines remain stable and uninterrupted.

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