Mumbai: Ambuja Foundation has announced the appointment of Mr. Chandrakant Kumbhani as its new Chief Executive Officer (CEO), marking a significant leadership transition for one of India's leading community development organisations. Kumbhani succeeds Pearl Tiwari, whose leadership helped build Ambuja Foundation into a widely respected institution focused on rural transformation and sustainable development.
Sharing the announcement, Kumbhani expressed gratitude to the Foundation’s Chairman and Board for their trust and acknowledged the strong legacy created by Tiwari. He also reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with teams, partners, and communities to advance the Foundation’s mission and deepen its impact across India.
Over Two Decades of Leadership in Community Development
A seasoned development professional, Chandrakant Kumbhani has spent more than two decades driving community-focused initiatives within the Ambuja ecosystem. Prior to his elevation as CEO in June 2026, he served as Chief Operating Officer – Community Development at Ambuja Foundation from 2023 to 2026, where he led strategic operations and strengthened the organisation’s development programmes across multiple states.
Before that, he held the position of Vice President – Community Development between 2021 and 2023 and served as General Manager for nearly 16 years from 2005 to 2021. Throughout his tenure, Kumbhani has been associated with initiatives aimed at empowering rural communities through sustainable livelihoods, natural resource management, women’s empowerment, skill development, healthcare, and education.
Widely recognised in the CSR and development sector, Kumbhani has also participated in several industry forums and knowledge platforms, including events organised by TheCSRUniverse, where he has shared insights on community development, sustainability, and corporate social responsibility.
Strong Academic Foundation and Sustainability Expertise
Kumbhani’s professional journey is supported by a solid academic background. He holds a Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) in Agricultural Engineering from Gujarat Agricultural University, providing him with a strong understanding of rural systems and agricultural development.
Further strengthening his expertise in sustainable development, he completed a Diploma in CSR and Sustainability through the Swedish Institute Management Program, equipping him with global perspectives on responsible business practices and sustainable community engagement.
Ambuja Foundation’s Lasting Impact on Rural India
Over the years, Ambuja Foundation has emerged as a leading force in community development, positively impacting millions of lives across rural India. The Foundation works across key thematic areas including water resource management, agriculture and livestock development, women’s empowerment, health and sanitation, education, skill development, and climate resilience.
Its watershed development and water conservation initiatives have helped improve water security in drought-prone regions, while livelihood programmes have strengthened income opportunities for farmers and rural households. The Foundation has also played a pivotal role in promoting women-led self-help groups, entrepreneurship, and community institutions that drive long-term social change.
With Chandrakant Kumbhani taking charge as CEO, Ambuja Foundation is expected to build on its strong legacy and further accelerate its efforts toward creating resilient, self-reliant, and sustainable rural communities across India.
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