In a major set back to its current MD and CEO (International) Manoj Kohli, Bharti Airtel is set to elevate its India head Gopal Vittal to the position of managing director. Kohli will step down as MD and will become chairman of Bharti Airtel Netherlands BV, the company that is responsible for Africa operations.

Last year, when Sanjay Kapoor resigned from the company as its India chief, there were speculations that Manoj Kohli will head both India and Africa operations. Sources say that the Kapoor resigned as the company wanted him to head Africa operations, which he declined.

Gopal Vittal is currently the joint MD and CEO (India) of Bharti Airtel. He will continue heading India operations of Bharti Airtel.

Kohli will be based in Delhi and the newly appointed CEO for Africa, Christian de Faria would report to him.

The company is likely to make announcement later this week.