Tata Trusts, one of India’s oldest and largest philanthropic organizations, has appointed Siddharth Sharma as its new CEO. Sharma, who previously served as the Chief Operating Officer of the trust, will take over the role effective immediately. In his new role, Sharma will be responsible for leading the strategic direction and overall operations of Tata Trusts. He will also work closely with the board of trustees to develop and implement programs that align with the trust’s mission of improving the lives of underprivileged communities in India.
Sharma brings over 20 years of experience in the field of philanthropy and development to the role. Prior to joining Tata Trusts, he worked with organizations such as the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Ford Foundation, and the United Nations Development Programme. The new CEO of Tata Trusts will replace N Srinath, who stepped down as the company’s CEO after a successful career in the government, last year following his retirement from Tata Trusts. Currently, Uppaluri is serving as the programme director for India, Nepal and Sri Lanka at the Ford Foundation, and the 48-year-old will be switching over to Tata Trusts later this year. A new position has been created by Tata Trusts in order to accommodate her in her role as COO.
Tata Trusts Chairman Ratan Tata said in a statement, “Siddharth’s experience and deep understanding of the development sector make him the ideal candidate to lead Tata Trusts as we continue our mission to improve the lives of underprivileged communities in India.” Sharma said he was honored to be appointed as CEO of Tata Trusts and was looking forward to working with the organization’s trustees and staff to make a positive impact on the lives of those in need.
The appointment is significant since Tata Trusts is not only the largest shareholder in Tata Sons, but it is also one of India’s oldest charity organisations. It was formed in 1892 by Jamsetji Tata, the Tata Group’s pioneer and creator. Over the last century, the organisation has concentrated on “enhancing the quality of life of tribal, neglected, disadvantaged, backward, and minority sectors, with a specific emphasis on women and children.”