The GSMA has elected Gopal Vittal, Vice Chairman & Managing Director of Bharti Airtel, as its new Chairman until the end of 2026. Gopal Vittal, who has been serving as the Acting Chair of the GSMA Board since early 2025, will now formally lead the global telecom association.
In his new role, Gopal Vittal will oversee GSMA’s strategic direction, guiding an organization that represents over 1,000 telecom companies, including handset manufacturers, software developers, equipment providers, internet firms, and businesses in adjacent industries.
This appointment marks a significant milestone, as Gopal Vittal becomes the second Indian to hold this prestigious position, following Sunil Bharti Mittal, the founder of Bharti Airtel. The development underscores Airtel’s growing influence in the global telecom industry, with both Sunil Mittal and Gopal Vittal having played crucial roles on the GSMA Board for years.
“The mobile industry contributed $6.5 trillion to the global economy in 2024 and serves as the backbone for much of the world’s innovation. The GSMA plays a crucial role in unifying the mobile ecosystem and driving innovation that fosters positive global change,” Gopal Vittal said.
With over a decade of experience on the GSMA Board, Gopal Vittal has served in various capacities, including as Deputy Chair for the past three years. His leadership in the telecom sector spans several key roles, including a 12-year tenure as CEO & MD of Bharti Airtel. Currently, he also serves on the boards of Airtel Africa and Indus Towers.
The GSMA Board will announce a new Deputy Chair in the coming weeks.
TelecomLead.com News Desk
