HCLTech has appointed Amitabh Kant, India’s former G20 Sherpa and a veteran policy leader, as an Independent Director on its Board. The appointment, announced on September 8, is seen as a strategic move to strengthen the company’s global positioning and expand its focus on artificial intelligence and emerging technologies.
Kant, widely recognized for his contributions to India’s economic reforms and digital transformation initiatives, brings decades of leadership experience in public policy, governance, and international collaboration. His appointment aligns with HCLTech’s ambition to scale its influence across global markets at a time when AI, sustainability, and digital-first strategies are reshaping the technology services landscape.
The company highlighted Kant’s role as India’s G20 Sherpa, where he played a central part in shaping global economic discussions and building consensus on critical issues such as climate action, sustainable growth, and digital governance. Prior to this, he served as CEO of NITI Aayog, where he championed initiatives like Digital India, Startup India, and programs focused on innovation, entrepreneurship, and sustainability. His track record of working with governments, multilateral institutions, and the private sector is expected to bring valuable insights to HCLTech’s boardroom.
For HCLTech, the appointment signals a sharper focus on aligning corporate strategy with global policy and technological trends. As enterprises worldwide accelerate adoption of AI and digital solutions, technology firms are under pressure to not only innovate but also navigate complex regulatory environments. Kant’s expertise in bridging policy and technology ecosystems is expected to strengthen HCLTech’s ability to address these challenges.
Industry experts note that HCLTech’s move reflects a broader trend in Indian IT services, where companies are increasingly looking beyond traditional delivery models to position themselves as thought leaders in AI and global innovation. With peers like Infosys, TCS, and Wipro also deepening investments in AI and sustainability, HCLTech is reinforcing its commitment to being at the forefront of transformative technologies while ensuring compliance with evolving global frameworks.
Kant’s appointment comes at a time when AI adoption is becoming central to enterprise transformation. Gartner projects that by 2026, nearly 75 percent of enterprises will operationalize AI across multiple business functions. For HCLTech, strengthening its strategic roadmap with guidance from a policy veteran is expected to help accelerate partnerships, investments, and innovation in this space.
The company’s leadership has emphasized that Kant’s global experience and deep understanding of India’s growth story will add immense value as it seeks to balance growth in developed markets with expanding opportunities in emerging economies. His role is expected to extend beyond governance, helping HCLTech shape initiatives in areas such as ethical AI, sustainability, and global digital collaboration.
Amitabh Kant’s presence on the board also highlights the growing convergence of policy and corporate governance in shaping technology’s future. As AI, data privacy, and sustainability dominate boardroom conversations, leaders with cross-sector experience are becoming increasingly sought after. Kant’s ability to combine public policy expertise with strategic foresight makes him a significant addition to HCLTech’s leadership ecosystem.
For stakeholders, the appointment is likely to be viewed as a signal of stability and ambition. It demonstrates HCLTech’s intent to not only drive business growth but also contribute to larger conversations about the responsible use of technology in society. The move further positions the company as a player prepared to navigate both the opportunities and responsibilities that come with global leadership in technology.
As HCLTech continues to expand its global presence, Kant’s appointment is expected to provide fresh perspectives at the intersection of technology, policy, and strategy. For the Indian IT industry, it is another example of how leading firms are leveraging the expertise of seasoned policymakers to guide their next phase of growth in the age of AI.