The Tata Group's losses in newer businesses such as aviation and digital services have reportedly drawn criticism from Tata Trusts Chairman Noel Tata.
The impact of these concerns is now becoming visible within the group, with reports suggesting that Maya Tata, Noel Tata's daughter, is exploring opportunities outside Tata Digital.
According to a report by The Times of India citing sources, Maya Tata is considering roles within other Tata Group companies, with retail giant Trent emerging as her preferred destination.
Tata Digital undergoing major changes
Tata Sons, the holding company of the Tata Group, has invested more than Rs 24,000 crore in Tata Digital. The business includes brands such as Tata Neu, BigBasket, Croma and Tata 1mg.
However, the company has been undergoing significant restructuring. As part of the overhaul, the workforce at Tata Neu has reportedly been reduced by nearly half.
Sources claim that amid these changes, Maya Tata has begun evaluating opportunities within other group businesses, including Trent and Tata Consumer Products.
Maya Tata's career journey
Maya Tata, 37, began her professional career with Tata Capital before moving to Tata Digital.
Her brother, Neville Tata, is already associated with Trent and oversees the operations of Star Bazaar stores. Noel Tata currently serves as Chairman of Trent.
Maya's elder sister, Leah Tata, is associated with Indian Hotels Company Limited, the Tata Group firm that operates the Taj Hotels chain.
Unlike her siblings, who have spent most of their careers within a single group company, Maya has worked across different Tata businesses.
Why is Noel Tata concerned?
According to reports, Noel Tata has repeatedly expressed concerns over losses in the group's newer ventures, particularly in the airline and digital businesses.
Sources suggest that dissatisfaction with the performance of these businesses is one of the factors behind the ongoing restructuring efforts within Tata Digital.
The reported move by Maya Tata to explore other opportunities within the group has added to speculation about the future direction of the company's digital business.
Governance issues and leadership discussions
All three siblings: Maya, Neville and Leah, serve on the boards of smaller trusts operating under Tata Trusts. Tata Trusts remains the largest shareholder in Tata Sons.
Neville Tata is also a board member of the Sir Dorabji Tata Trust, one of the group's key charitable trusts.
Meanwhile, discussions are reportedly ongoing regarding a possible third term for Tata Sons Chairman N. Chandrasekaran. According to people familiar with the matter, Noel Tata wants greater clarity on the group's five-year strategic roadmap before any decision is made.
Differences over performance and strategy
Reports indicate that Tata Trusts and Tata Sons have been engaged in discussions over several unresolved issues, including the performance of businesses such as Air India and BigBasket.
Governance-related concerns have also reportedly contributed to differences between the two sides.
Noel Tata is believed to be seeking clearer answers on the future strategy of the group as it continues to invest heavily in new-age businesses while managing profitability challenges.