The Appointments Committee of the Cabinet has appointed Vikas Kaushal, global leader for energy and process industries at Kearney, as the new Chairman and Managing Director (CMD) of Hindustan Petroleum Corporation Limited (HPCL).
Kaushal brings extensive experience working with India’s leading public-sector energy firms, having advised the leadership of HPCL, Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL), Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and GAIL. His appointment comes amid ongoing challenges in filling leadership roles across major public-sector enterprises. For instance, in December 2022, retired BPCL chairman Arun Singh was named CEO of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) after a prolonged selection process.
Kaushal brings a wealth of experience to his new role. A graduate of Panjab University and an MBA from the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIM Ahmedabad), he has built an impressive global career. Notably, he was the only Indian to serve on Kearney’s Global Board of Directors, completing two full terms—the maximum tenure allowed. He also served as Managing Director and Country Head for Kearney India for five years, contributing significantly to the firm’s governance, finance, and audit committees.
Kaushal’s extensive track record highlights his capabilities. He played a key role in establishing HPCL’s Centralised Procurement Office, spearheaded the company’s petrochemical diversification strategy, and supported digital transformation initiatives at Indian Oil Corporation (IOCL) and BPCL. Additionally, he has worked on refinery maintenance strategies and net-zero initiatives, making significant contributions to India’s energy transition efforts.
, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), and GAIL.){kind=link}