Jehangir Wadia Makes a Triumphant Return to Wadia Group Boards After Three-Year Hiatus

Jehangir (Jeh) Wadia, the younger son of Nusli Wadia, the long-standing patriarch of the Wadia Group, has rejoined the boards of several Wadia Group companies after a three-year hiatus. The decision marks the end of his time in London, where he relocated with his family in 2021. Sources indicate that the 51-year-old’s return followed constructive discussions with his father, Nusli, 81, in London, urging him to return and contribute to the family’s conglomerate.

Jehangir’s sudden departure from all Wadia Group boards in March 2021 had caught attention. At that time, the Wadia family emphasized their decision to step back from day-to-day executive roles to focus on enhancing shareholder returns while still maintaining an active stake as shareholders. It was seen as a strategic shift toward professionalizing management.

After nearly 60 years at the helm, Nusli Wadia has recognized the need for fresh leadership and energy within the family to complement the group’s professional management team. Although Jehangir’s family remains in London, he is expected to divide his time between there and India to focus on the group’s operations.

Industry insiders have welcomed Jehangir’s return, noting his sharp strategic insight and excellent analytical skills. He has rejoined Britannia Industries in a non-executive capacity and is also set to take over as Managing Director of Bombay Dyeing, a position he previously held before his hiatus.

Meanwhile, Jehangir’s elder brother, Ness Wadia, 53, continues to lead the boards of Bombay Burmah and National Peroxide. Both Ness and Nusli remain deeply involved in overseeing all of the group’s operations, particularly Britannia, the flagship company.

The Wadia Group, one of India’s oldest and most respected conglomerates, has been actively working on succession planning, and Jehangir’s return is seen as a critical step to ensure long-term continuity. With a combined market capitalization of Rs 1.38 lakh crore, the group remains a key player in the Indian corporate landscape, with a rich history spanning multiple industries, from consumer goods to real estate.

Advisors within the group believe that Jehangir’s involvement will play a pivotal role in driving future growth while managing the delicate balance between family dynamics and professional governance.

In addition to its leadership in the consumer sector, the Wadia Group has also been instrumental in shaping Mumbai’s skyline through its real estate arm, Bombay Realty. With a legacy of over a century, the group continues to focus on developing residential, office, and hospitality properties.

With family businesses accounting for 80% of Indian companies, according to a 2023 Grant Thornton report, the Wadia Group’s approach to leadership transitions and succession planning could offer valuable lessons for others in the industry.