Castrol India Limited, an automotive and industrial lubricant manufacturing company, announced key leadership changes to its board of directors. Effective today, an industry veteran. Rakesh Makhija has assumed the role of Chairman, succeeding R. Gopalakrishnan, who stepped down after 24 years of dedicated service, including five years as Chairman.
R. Gopalakrishnan said, “It has been an incredible journey to be part of Castrol India’s growth over the years. I am confident that under Mr. Makhija’s capable leadership, the company will continue to thrive and set new benchmarks in the industry.”
With a distinguished career spanning over four decades, Makhija brings a wealth of experience in leadership and strategic management. He has held senior positions at SKF Group, Tata Honeywell Limited, and Honeywell International, and was recently the Non-Executive Chairman of Axis Bank Limited.
“I am honored to take on the role of Chairman at Castrol India. Having served as an Independent Director for the past five years, I have witnessed the company’s growth and potential. I am excited to see Castrol India going into its next phase of innovation and success,” said Makhija.
In addition to the Chairman’s appointment, Castrol India also appointed Satyavati Berera, a seasoned business leader, as an Independent Director and Audit Committee Chairperson, effective today. Berera, a former Chief Operating Officer of PwC India, brings with her over four decades of experience in business leadership and governance. She succeeds Uday Khanna, who retires after a remarkable tenure with the company.
“I am thrilled to join Castrol India at such a pivotal moment. I look forward to working with the board and management team to ensure the company continues its strong performance and upholds the highest standards of governance,” said Berera.
Sandeep Sangwan, Managing Director of Castrol India Limited, said, “We are fortunate to have leaders of such high caliber joining our Board. Mr. Makhija’s wealth of industry knowledge, combined with Ms. Berera’s extensive experience in governance, will be instrumental as we continue to accelerate our growth and build on our legacy. I also extend my sincere gratitude to Mr. Gopalakrishnan and Mr. Khanna for their invaluable contributions to the company.”
The company had recently also appointed Kartikeya Dube as a Nominee Director, effective 30 July 2024. Dube brings over three decades of experience in the energy sector, including a significant tenure at BP.
Sangeeta Talwar, an independent director with extensive experience in marketing, sales, and leadership roles at various global corporations, will continue to serve on the board. She will continue to Chair the Nomination Remuneration and Compensation (NRC) Committee as well as assume the Chairmanship of the Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) committee.
