Sanjay Khanna Takes Helm as BPCL’s New Leader
On April 9, 2026, Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), recognized as one of the Fortune Global 500 enterprises and classified as a Maharatna PSU, has officially declared the induction of Sanjay Khanna as its new Chairman & Managing Director (C&MD). Previously serving as the Director (Refineries) within the company, Khanna’s new role received the green light from the Appointments Committee of the Cabinet (ACC), following a recommendation by the Search-cum-Selection Committee, which operates under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. Khanna is set to begin his tenure immediately and will continue until his retirement on May 31, 2029, unless directed otherwise.
Khanna, who brings over thirty years of expertise in refinery management and project leadership, is anticipated to amplify BPCL’s dedication to high-quality products, integration into petrochemicals, enhanced operational efficiencies, and secure energy solutions geared towards sustainable development.
Educated as a Chemical Engineer from the National Institute of Technology Tiruchirappalli, with advanced studies in Finance Management from the University of Mumbai, Khanna has been instrumental in elevating BPCL’s refining and petrochemical operations. Before stepping into the role of C&MD, he was pivotal in his role as Director (Refineries) and had overseen significant operational improvements and expansions at BPCL’s refineries in Mumbai and Kochi. Notably, during his tenure as Executive Director at Kochi Refinery, he spearheaded the launch of BPCL’s inaugural Propylene Derivative Petrochemical Project (PDPP), navigating through the challenges posed by the pandemic and marking a significant achievement in the company’s petrochemical sector.
Khanna’s career is highlighted by his leadership on numerous important projects that have seen the creation of new processing units, increasing operational efficiency, improving profitability, and fostering technological innovations within BPCL.
Additionally, Khanna holds positions on the boards of Bharat Petro Resources Limited, Petronet LNG Limited, and Ratnagiri Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited, playing a crucial role in enhancing BPCL’s synergies across the energy spectrum. He also chairs the Technical Committee for Petroleum Refineries at the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, where he contributes to the strategic and technical progression of India’s refining industry.
