Abstract

Ratan Tata is widely recognized as the person responsible for transforming the Tata Group, a large India-based conglomerate, from an unwieldy collection of businesses into a relatively more nimble group of companies better prepared to take advantage of opportunities. The case discusses Ratan Tata's early days at the Tata Group and his attempts to change the processes, people and work culture at the Group companies. It explains the steps that he took in order to inject professionalism in the Group. It briefly examines the two directions for growth - innovation and globalization - that he chose for the Group companies. The case then describes his vision, risk-taking ability and high ethical standards. The case ends with a brief discussion on the Group's future.

Learning Objectives

The case is structured to achieve the following Learning Objectives:

• Learn about the characteristics of a leader.
• Appreciate the attempts made by a Group head to revive the Group companies in the face of challenges posed by a dynamic business environment.
• Know more about the initiatives taken by Ratan Tata to professionalize the Tata Group
• Analyze the future prospects for the Group.

Keywords

Ratan Tata, Leadership, Change Agent, Tata Group, Product development, Attitude toward risk, Globalization, Business transformation, Turnaround, Business Ethics