Group Director – Corporate Affairs & Development, Aditya Birla Group

 With over four decades of experience, Mr. Sunil Bajaj is a distinguished leader in policy advocacy, corporate strategy, and regulatory affairs. Currently serving as Group Director – Corporate Affairs & Development at Aditya Birla Group (ABG), he drives strategic policy initiatives, high-impact partnerships, and sustainable growth. Under his leadership, ABG, a $70 billion conglomerate, operates in 41 countries with a workforce of over 187,000 employees from 100+ nationalities.


Since joining ABG in 2021, Mr. Bajaj has aligned global operations with business and societal goals, fostering sustainable development. His expertise in navigating regulatory landscapes and building stakeholder relationships has established him as a trusted mentor in corporate governance.


Previously, Mr. Bajaj was Director and Head – Strategy & Policy Advocacy at Essar Group, contributing to its growth in energy, infrastructure, and technology. His career began in 1983 at the Indian Express Group, working closely with Sri Ram Nath Goenka, later leading the establishment of Sahara Group’s media division. These roles highlight his ability to drive strategic initiatives across industries.


Renowned for bridging corporate ambitions with public policy, Mr. Bajaj’s negotiation skills and strategic foresight ensure alignment between business initiatives and societal impact. He serves on the Board of Living Media (India Today), TV Today and actively supports philanthropic causes in healthcare and education.


An alumnus of Banaras Hindu University, Mr. Bajaj’s multidisciplinary education informs his holistic approach to business and governance. A global traveler and lifelong learner, he blends humility with strategic vision, mentoring future leaders and emphasizing values-driven leadership.


Mr. Bajaj’s leadership continues to strengthen ABG’s global influence, demonstrating how businesses can drive economic growth while addressing social challenges. His career exemplifies creating value for businesses, communities, and the nation.

Building My Career Brick by Brick

The Indian Express Group

Head of Operations (Mar 1983 – Jan 1992)
Managed operations while working closely with Sri Ram Nath Goenka, gaining expertise in strategic media and operations.

Sahara India Group

Media Head (Feb 1992 – Jul 2004)

  • Launched multiple media channels and editions in Hindi, Urdu, and English.
  • Increased circulation, sales, and profitability while setting up the Corporate Relations Division.

Essar Group

Director and Head - Corporate Relations (Aug 2004 – Oct 2017)

  • Played a key role in the Hutch-Essar-Vodafone deal.
  • Secured over 3,000 regulatory approvals, enhancing the group’s operational success.
  • Conceptualized and implemented impactful CSR initiatives through the Essar Foundation.

Imperium Management and Consultants

Chairman (Nov 2017 – Feb 2021)
Advised top corporates on high-value policy and regulatory issues, leading a team of 10 experts.

Aditya Birla Group (ABG)

  • Group Executive President & Group Head - Corporate Affairs (Feb 2021 – Jul 2024) Strengthened policy advocacy, government relations, and corporate development for ABG’s global footprint across 41 countries.
  • Group Director - Corporate Affairs & Development (Aug 2024 – Present)
    Leading public policy, government relations, and business expansion for ABG’s global operations.

Throughout Career

Actively involved in philanthropy, focusing on healthcare and education for underprivileged communities.

Held memberships in prestigious organizations such as FICCI, ASSOCHAM, SAARC and the World Association of Newspapers (WAN).