By Saurav Pandey | February 05 2025
Shantanu Naidu holds the position of General Manager, Head of Strategic Initiatives at Tata Motors, where he plays a key role in shaping the company’s future strategies.
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Naidu shared a special camaraderie with Ratan Tata, overcoming generational differences to form a strong professional and personal connection.
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Starting as an engineering intern, Naidu’s dedication and innovative approach propelled him to the role of General Manager, marking a remarkable career trajectory.
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He earned a Bachelor’s degree in Mechanical Engineering from Savitribai Phule Pune University and later pursued an MBA at Cornell Johnson Graduate School of Management.
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Naidu founded Motopaws, a social initiative aimed at enhancing road safety for stray dogs. The project gained recognition from Ratan Tata, who eventually became an investor.
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Under his leadership, Motopaws expanded its reach, developing reflective collars for dogs to prevent accidents and anti-poaching devices to protect wildlife.
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In 2021, Naidu launched Goodfellows, a startup dedicated to alleviating loneliness among senior citizens in India by offering companionship and emotional support.
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He is also a published author, with his book I Came Upon a Lighthouse (2021) offering insights into leadership, mentorship, and social responsibility.
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Naidu’s work reflects the core principles of Ratan Tata—compassion, leadership, and a commitment to societal progress.
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