Hero MotoCorp Limited, the world’s largest two-wheeler manufacturer, has appointed Harshavardhan Chitale as its Chief Executive Officer, effective Monday, January 5, 2026, following approval from the company’s Board of Directors. Mr Chitale brings over 30 years of global leadership experience spanning business-to-business and business-to-consumer sectors. His career has focused on industrial automation, lighting technology, digital transformation, and IT services. He has held senior executive roles at top-tier multinational and publicly traded companies, consistently driving growth, operational excellence, and organizational transformation.
With professional experience across India, Europe, and the United States, Mr Chitale offers a global perspective shaped by local insight. His leadership journey is marked by a consistent ability to deliver strategic growth, successfully integrate acquisitions, and create long-term business value.
Dr Pawan Munjal, Executive Chairman of Hero MotoCorp, said “Harsh’s proven ability to lead complex organizations through innovation, transformation, and global expansion makes him the right leader for Hero MotoCorp at this transformative time. His energy, clarity of vision, and leadership will strengthen our efforts across electric mobility, premium product offerings, digital enablement, sustainability, and business renewal. Under his guidance, Hero MotoCorp is poised to unlock new opportunities and deliver long-term value to all stakeholders.”
Before joining Hero MotoCorp, Mr Chitale served as the Global CEO of Signify’s €4 billion Professional Business, leading a team of 12,000 employees across 70 countries. During his tenure, he doubled the business’s profitability, launched over 100 new products annually, and championed innovation in IoT-enabled lighting solutions. He also oversaw the company’s supply chain, R&D, and manufacturing functions globally.
Previously, as Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Philips Lighting India, he led the company’s transition into a standalone public entity, reinforcing its market leadership. Harsh has also served in top executive roles at HCL Infosystems and Honeywell Automation India, where he spearheaded business growth and strategic transformation.
Known for his sharp strategic thinking and people-centric leadership, Mr Chitale is recognized for engaging effectively at all levels—from boardrooms to frontlines. An alumnus of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, he was honored with the Director’s Gold Medal as the top graduate of his class. Outside of corporate roles, he is also an active angel investor in emerging sectors such as electric mobility, clean energy, healthcare technology, and agriculture technology.
As part of this leadership transition, Vikram Kasbekar, who has been serving as Acting CEO, will work closely with Mr Chitale to ensure a seamless handover. The Board expressed its appreciation to Mr Kasbekar for his dedication and leadership during the interim period. He will continue on the Board of Directors as Executive Director and Chief Technology Officer.
