TCS beats Unilever, ITC, Infosys as India’s most admired firm

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) is now India's most admired company, ahead of Hindustan Unilever, ITC, and Infosys, according to a survey by global management consultancy firm Hay Group.

The findings of the second edition of India's Most Admired Companies (IMAC) by the Hay Group in association with Fortune India show that TCS replaced last year's winner – another Tata Group company, Tata Steel – as it scored highest on parameters such as corporate governance, financial soundness, and talent management.

Fast moving consumer goods maker Hindustan Unilever Ltd (HUL), ranking second overall, has been rated highest on its endurance and product quality; while ITC and Infosys share the joint third spot on this parameter.

State Bank of India, Larsen & Toubro, Tata Steel, Oil & Natural Gas Corp, Maruti Suzuki India, and ICICI Bank also feature in the top 10.

Commenting on the findings, Hay Group India managing director Gaurav Lahiri said, "This year, two criteria in particular - leadership and creating shareholder value - separated the top 10 from the rest of the winners, with talent management coming a close third."

Last year's top 10 did not include any government-owned companies; but this year two of them - SBI and ONGC – made it to the list.

 ICICI Bank also makes its debut in the top ten this year. But Colgate Palmolive, Tata Motors, and Dell India have slipped compared to their ranking last year.

Lahiri said, "As demonstrated by the most admired companies, in today's uncertain business environment it is more important than ever for organisations to create shareholder value through good leadership and talent management."

The study was based on a unique peer ranking methodology that covered 493 companies across 16 key sectors. Findings represent a report card on corporate reputations that involves more than just profits and performance.