Niranjan Gupta resigns as Hero MotoCorp CEO, Vikram Kasbekar named Acting CEO

Hero MotoCorp announced on Friday that its Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Niranjan Gupta, will be stepping down from his position. The company has appointed Vikram Kasbekar, Executive Director (Operations), as the Acting CEO, effective May 1, 2025. According to the official statement, Gupta has chosen to pursue other opportunities and will officially conclude his tenure on April 30, 2025. Kasbekar will assume leadership responsibilities during the transition period until a permanent CEO is appointed.

Expressing his appreciation for Gupta’s contributions, Dr. Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman of Hero MotoCorp, highlighted his instrumental role in strengthening the company’s financial foundation, forging global alliances, and laying the groundwork for future growth strategies. He acknowledged Gupta’s leadership in driving the company toward new milestones and extended his best wishes for his future endeavors. Speaking about the leadership transition, he stated that Vikram Kasbekar, a seasoned industry professional with extensive experience across Research & Development, Operations, Supply Chain, and Engineering, will guide the company and its leadership team during this phase. Munjal emphasized that Kasbekar’s expertise will ensure smooth operations and continuity until a new CEO is appointed.

As part of its evolving business structure, Hero MotoCorp announced that the EV & Emerging Mobility Business Unit (EMBU) will transition into a fully independent and empowered entity, effective February 1, 2025. This move is aimed at accelerating advancements in electric vehicles and next-generation mobility.

Reflecting on his journey at Hero MotoCorp, Niranjan Gupta expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the organization and contribute to its success. He described his tenure as an enriching experience and acknowledged the unwavering support of Dr. Munjal, the Board of Directors, and his colleagues. As he embarks on new professional opportunities, he extended his best wishes to the entire Hero MotoCorp team, hoping for a bright and progressive future.

Vikram Kasbekar, in his statement, expressed his honor in taking on the role of Acting CEO. Having been an integral part of Hero MotoCorp for over two decades, he reaffirmed his commitment to driving growth and innovation while collaborating closely with the company’s talented team. He also conveyed his appreciation for the trust placed in him by Dr. Munjal and the Board of Directors and assured stakeholders that he would strive to uphold Hero MotoCorp’s legacy of excellence during this transition period.

In addition to the CEO transition, Hero MotoCorp has made several key leadership changes to strengthen its operational efficiency and business growth. Ram Kuppuswamy, currently serving as Chief Procurement Officer, will be elevated to Chief Operations Officer (COO) – Manufacturing, effective April 1, 2025. In his new role, he will oversee plant operations and quality management, ensuring world-class manufacturing excellence. Over the past three years, Kuppuswamy has successfully transformed the procurement function into a highly agile and future-ready segment, and in his expanded role, he will focus on optimizing manufacturing and supplier networks to align with the company’s evolving growth strategy.

Furthermore, Ashutosh Varma, National Sales Head – India Business Unit (IBU), will be promoted to Chief Business Officer (CBO) – IBU, effective May 1, 2025. Recognized for his exceptional leadership and proven ability to drive transformative results over his 15-year tenure, Varma will spearhead IBU’s restructuring to accelerate business expansion and enhance market leadership. He will take over from Ranjivjit Singh, who will complete his tenure with the company on April 30, 2025.

Additionally, Jyoti Singh, currently Head of HR – R&D, will assume an expanded role as Deputy Chief Human Resources Officer, effective February 1, 2025. In her new capacity, she will lead initiatives focused on strengthening Hero MotoCorp’s employer brand on a global scale, attracting top talent, and fostering a collaborative and growth-oriented work environment. She will play a key role in advancing the company’s people agenda and reinforcing its commitment to diversity and innovation.

Hero MotoCorp’s leadership restructuring reflects its ongoing commitment to enhancing operational excellence, fostering business transformation, and driving innovation in an evolving industry landscape. As the company embarks on this transition, it remains focused on sustaining its legacy while shaping the future of mobility.

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