R.J. Shahaney, chairman Emeritus of Hinduja Group flagship company Ashok Leyland, died here on Tuesday following a brief illness, the heavy commercial maker said.

Shahaney was the city-based company’s first managing director who served in that capacity between 1978 and 1998 and later as chairman till 2010.

The company in a statement described him as a visionary architect who laid a strong foundation in manufacturing, engineering and technology.

Ashok Leyland’s Hosur, Alwar and the Bhandara plants were the creations of Shahaney, the company said.

Shahaney had also served the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) as its president.

Ashok Leyland chairman Dheeraj Hinduja said: “We mourn the loss of a great leader, ally and friend.”