Historic Appointment at HPCL

In a groundbreaking move, the Indian government has appointed Vikas Kaushal, the former India head of global management consultancy firm Kearney, as the new chairman of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Ltd (HPCL). This marks the first instance of a private sector executive leading a state-run oil company, signaling a significant shift in the government's approach to leadership within the energy sector.

A New Era for HPCL

Kaushal, a chemical engineering graduate from Panjab University and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad, brings over three decades of corporate management experience to HPCL. His extensive background in advising corporates, coupled with his leadership role in Kearney's energy and process industries, positions him uniquely to steer HPCL through the evolving landscape of the global energy market.

Government's Strategic Move

The appointment comes after the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) rejected all eight candidates interviewed for the position last June. By choosing Kaushal, the government underscores its commitment to infusing fresh talent into public sector enterprises through lateral entry, especially at a time when the energy sector is undergoing a paradigm shift.

Kaushal's election to Kearney's global board for two terms, the maximum limit, and being the only Indian to achieve this feat, further highlights his global standing and expertise in the energy sector.