Ashok Leyland on November 26 announced that MD and CEO Vipin Sondhi had declared his intention to resign from an effective post December 31.

Sondhi has resigned for personal reasons, to devote more time to take care of certain personal and family commitments in the post-Covid pandemic situation, which requires its presence in New Delhi and consequently resign as managers and CEOs with the effects of December 31, 2021.

The Ashok Leyland Board has asked Dheeraj Hinduja, who currently serves as a non-executive, non-independent school principal, to step as executive chairman with direct effects. The board will soon meet to decide further action to identify the next CEO and MD, Ashok Leyland said in a statement.

Commenting on Vipin Sondhi’s resignation, commercial vehicle manufacturers said: “Appreciating his personal reason, the Board has extended his support and agreed to his decision to continue.” Sondhi, who will resign from December 31, 2021, will fully support and facilitate a smooth management transition, he added.

After announcing his retirement, Vipin Sondhi said: “Working with the Hinduja family and the leadership team in Ashok Leyland has become a enriching experience. That we have been able to fulfill all the challenges faced even though global pandemics and continuing on our growth path is very satisfying.”

“I would like to thank the council for his sustainable support and the team that committed me across Ashok Leyland for their tireless work and cooperation to ensure that we moved closer to our vision to appear as one of the 10 CV makers in the world “He added.

Reacting to the announcement, Chairman of Ashok Leyland Dheeraj Hindu said, “I want to record a significant contribution of Vipin in Ashok Leyland who navigate disorders caused by decisive actions and pandemic companies and seeding to pursue our vision. We hope Vipin is best in all his future efforts. “