Rakesh Kumar, a seasoned leader at Steel Authority of India Limited, has assumed the role of Executive Director (Operations) at Bhilai Steel Plant, one of the largest and most important steel manufacturing facilities in India. On the occasion of his appointment, he was congratulated by Anjani Kumar, the Executive Director In-Charge (Works), in a ceremony that also saw the presence of senior officials and General Managers from various departments. This transition is seen as a significant development for SAIL and Bhilai Steel Plant, where Rakesh Kumar’s experience and leadership are expected to bring new dynamism to operations.
Rakesh Kumar’s career at SAIL spans over three decades, during which he has gained extensive expertise in a range of critical operations, including mining, coke ovens, gas utilities, and steel production. He started his journey with SAIL on July 14, 1990, as a Junior Manager in the Mines Department at Raw Materials Division. His deep technical knowledge and exceptional management skills quickly propelled him through the ranks, where he took on increasingly challenging roles at different locations, including the Bokaro Steel Plant, a key facility in SAIL’s portfolio.
One of the highlights of Rakesh Kumar’s career was his appointment as the Chief General Manager of CO & CC, Coke Oven and Coal Chemicals, at the Bokaro Steel Plant on June 30, 2020. In this role, he demonstrated significant leadership, particularly in overseeing operations that are central to steel production, like coke ovens and gas utilities. His ability to manage such complex and critical functions earned him further recognition within the company, and in November 2024, he was appointed as the Executive Director of Bhilai Steel Plant. This role adds another layer of responsibility, as it places him in charge of overseeing the day-to-day operations of one of India’s oldest and largest steel plants.