Bahram Vakil, co-founder of law firm AZB & Partners, will take over as Chairman of Tata Group retail company Trent Limited from November 12, 2026, succeeding Noel N. Tata, who is retiring from the position after nearly three decades with the company.

Trent’s Board of Directors approved Bahram Vakil’s appointment at its meeting held on October 29. He will assume charge following Noel Tata’s retirement as Chairman and Director at the close of business on November 11. Noel Tata will be appointed Chairman Emeritus with effect from November 12, in recognition of his contribution to the company over the past 29 years.

The leadership transition is in accordance with the Tata Group Governance Guidelines governing board composition and retirement of directors. Noel Tata has been associated with Trent since 1997 and has overseen its growth across retail formats, including its fashion and lifestyle brands Westside and Zudio, as well as its Star grocery business.

In other board-level changes, Trent has approved the appointment of Kalpana Merchant as an additional director and independent director for a three-year term commencing October 30, subject to shareholder approval. Kalpana Merchant has over 45 years of experience in the legal profession and has previously been associated with Kanga & Co., AZB & Partners and Jerome Merchant + Partners.