TVS Motor Names Sudarshan Venu as Chairman and Managing Director, Effective August 25, 2025
In a significant leadership transition, TVS Motor Company, one of India’s leading two-wheeler and three-wheeler manufacturers, announced today that Mr. Sudarshan Venu has been unanimously named Chairman and Managing Director of the company, effective August 25, 2025. The decision was made by the Board of Directors in recognition of Sudarshan Venu’s substantial contributions to the company’s growth, strategic global expansion, and transformation over the years.
This appointment marks a new chapter for the company, as Mr. Venu steps into a role that brings both legacy and innovation together at the highest level of corporate leadership.
Leadership Transition at TVS Motor
The transition comes as Sir Ralf Speth, the current Chairman of TVS Motor Company, formally notified the Board that he would not be seeking reappointment as a director during the upcoming Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for August 22, 2025. Upon the conclusion of the AGM, Sir Ralf will step down from his position as Chairman, bringing to a close a noteworthy three-year tenure.
However, Sir Ralf’s association with TVS Motor will not end entirely. Recognizing his strategic insight and vast experience in the global automotive sector, the company announced that he will assume the newly created role of Chief Mentor of TVS Motor Company for a term of three years, beginning August 23, 2025. In this capacity, Sir Ralf will continue to play an advisory role, offering guidance on matters related to international expansion, innovation strategy, and advanced technology adoption.
Legacy of Sir Ralf Speth
Sir Ralf Speth, former CEO of Jaguar Land Rover, joined TVS Motor at a pivotal time in its evolution. Under his chairmanship, the company achieved new heights, not just in terms of market share but also in its global footprint and technological advancement. His leadership was instrumental in helping TVS Motor strengthen its brand presence in Europe, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Latin America. Additionally, his strong focus on innovation and sustainability aligned well with the company’s ambitions in electric mobility and advanced manufacturing practices.
Mr. Venu Srinivasan, Chairman Emeritus of TVS Motor Company, expressed his appreciation for Sir Ralf’s contributions, stating:
I express my sincere gratitude to Ralf for his exceptional leadership as Chairman over the last three years. His contributions have been invaluable in guiding our strategic expansion into global markets and fostering innovation that has significantly strengthened our industry standing. We are grateful for his continued support as Chief Mentor for TVS Motor and in welcoming Sudarshan into his new role. I am confident that Sudarshan, who in his capacity as Managing Director has demonstrated tremendous growth for the business, will take the Company to even greater heights.”
Sir Ralf also shared his thoughts on the transition and the company’s future, commenting:
It has been an honor for me to steer TVS Motor Company as its Chairman over the last three years. I am grateful for the support, cooperation, and personal friendships developed during my tenure. As I hand over the Chairmanship to Sudarshan, I am confident that under his leadership, the Company will continue its growth journey while championing core TVS values. Sudarshan’s dynamism and passion underscore his vision for the business, and I am confident that TVS is in safe, responsible hands. I wish Sudarshan and TVS Motor a bright future ahead.”
A New Era Under Sudarshan Venu
Sudarshan Venu, who currently serves as the Managing Director of TVS Motor Company, is no stranger to the company’s operations and ethos. Since taking on leadership roles over the past decade, he has been a driving force behind the firm’s internationalization efforts, digital transformation initiatives, and commitment to future-ready mobility solutions—including electric vehicles and connected technologies.
Upon his appointment, Mr. Venu expressed both gratitude and optimism for the road ahead:
I am very grateful to the Board for giving me this singular opportunity. I am truly honored and excited for the future and look forward to their continued support. TVS has been built on our Chairman Emeritus’s commitment to customer centricity, quality and technology. As we look to the future, we have to build on these values while capitalizing on new opportunities and reimagining for the future. I am most grateful to him for his continued guidance.”
He further acknowledged Sir Ralf’s role in the company’s recent transformation, stating:
Sir Ralf has been instrumental in challenging and mentoring us to expand more globally, onboard international talent, embrace newer processes, and invest in future products and technology. I look forward to his continued mentorship as our Chief Mentor. Importantly, TVS has grown due to the passion and energy of the entire team. I look forward to the continued partnership in our shared future.”
Strategic Priorities
With Sudarshan Venu assuming the dual role of Chairman and Managing Director, TVS Motor enters a new phase of integrated leadership that is expected to streamline strategic planning and execution. Among the key priorities under his chairmanship will be:
- Accelerating Global Expansion: Building on current exports and operations in over 80 countries, TVS aims to further entrench its brand globally, with increased investment in regional R&D centers and strategic partnerships.
- Electrification and Sustainability: The company has been making significant investments in electric vehicles (EVs), including the launch of the TVS iQube. Under Sudarshan’s leadership, the push toward electrification is expected to intensify with a broader EV product line and ecosystem development.
- Digital Transformation and Smart Mobility: From connected vehicles to digital customer engagement platforms, TVS will continue its pivot to a digitally enhanced future, with a focus on data-driven decision-making and mobility-as-a-service (MaaS) offerings.
- Talent Development and Inclusion: Sudarshan has consistently emphasized the importance of people in driving innovation. With a renewed focus on employee engagement, diversity, and leadership development, TVS aims to remain an employer of choice in the Indian and global mobility sectors.
A Continuum of Vision and Values
The appointment of Sudarshan Venu to the highest leadership role reflects not only his personal journey within TVS Motor but also the company’s broader commitment to continuity, innovation, and global relevance. From the foundational legacy established by Mr. Venu Srinivasan to the globally oriented stewardship of Sir Ralf Speth, and now to Sudarshan’s forward-looking leadership, TVS Motor is poised to strengthen its status as a global mobility brand rooted in Indian values.
The presence of Sir Ralf as Chief Mentor ensures that the company will continue to benefit from seasoned guidance, even as it moves boldly into new frontiers. This combination of young leadership and senior expertise forms a strategic blend that could prove to be a major asset in an industry undergoing rapid transformation.
About TVS Motor Company
TVS Motor Company is a globally recognized two- and three-wheeler manufacturer headquartered in India, known for its commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction. With a presence in over 80 countries and a strong product portfolio that spans scooters, motorcycles, mopeds, and electric vehicles, TVS continues to be one of the most respected brands in the global automotive industry. It is the flagship company of the $8.5 billion TVS Group.
