Gopal Vittal was named the GSMA Board's acting chair.

José María Álvarez-Pallete, the chairman and CEO of Telefónica, resigned, and Gopal Vittal, the vice chairman and MD of Bharti Airtel, was named the GSMA Board's acting chair.The Vice Chairman and Managing Director of Bharti Airtel, Gopal Vittal, assumed the role of Acting Chair of the GSMA Board on February 3, 2025. Following José María Álvarez-Pallete's resignation as Telefónica's chairman and CEO, this important appointment was made. Álvarez-Pallete resigned because he was leaving Telefónica. This shift demonstrates the dynamic shifts in the global telecom sector and the key positions that will influence its future.

What Does Gopal Vittal's GSMA Appointment Signify?

The GSMA, a global organization that represents more than 1,100 businesses in the telecoms industry, views Gopal Vittal's appointment as a turning point. As the company negotiates opportunities and challenges in the global market, Vittal's leadership background and telecom industry expertise will be essential. Given his extensive knowledge of the Indian and international telecom environments, his nomination will infuse the GSMA Board with new insights.

What Does Gopal Vittal's GSMA Appointment Signify?

The GSMA, a global organization that represents more than 1,100 businesses in the telecoms industry, views Gopal Vittal's appointment as a turning point. As the company negotiates opportunities and challenges in the global market, Vittal's leadership background and telecom industry expertise will be essential. Given his extensive knowledge of the Indian and international telecom environments, his nomination will infuse the GSMA Board with new insights.

What Previous Positions Did Gopal Vittal Hold at the GSMA?

Gopal Vittal has a history with the GSMA prior to his appointment as Acting Chair. His sustained influence in the business is seen in his reelection as Deputy Chair of the GSMA Board for the 2025–2026 period. In order to better prove his qualifications and comprehension of the organization's operations, Vittal also held a significant position on the GSMA Board from 2019 to 2020. His steady leadership on the GSMA Board puts him in a good position to lead the group in the years to come.