Sharad Malhotra Named First Indian Managing Director of Nippon Paint India

By siliconindia | Monday, 10 November 2025, 10:59 Hrs

Sharad Malhotra appointed as Managing Director of Nippon Paint India, effective December 1, 2025.
He becomes the first Indian to hold this position in the company’s history.
Malhotra will lead the company’s India strategy and continue driving its global automotive aftermarket business.

Japan-based Nippon Paint Holdings’ subsidiary, NIPSEA Group, has announced the appointment of Sharad Malhotra as the new Managing Director of Nippon Paint India, effective December 1, 2025. This marks a significant milestone as Malhotra becomes the first Indian to take charge of the company’s India operations.

Malhotra will succeed Jon Tan and report directly to Wee Siew Kim, Co-President and Group CEO of NIPSEA Group. In his new role, Malhotra will oversee the company’s strategic direction and growth in India, while continuing to lead Nippon Paint’s global automotive aftermarket business, a division he has successfully built and expanded from India.

Wee Siew Kim praised Malhotra’s leadership, stating, “Sharad has delivered strong results and built a robust global auto refinish business. His deep understanding of the market and commitment to excellence make him the ideal leader to drive our next growth phase in India”.

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Nippon Paint emphasized that India remains a priority market, citing its young population, expanding infrastructure, and growing consumer demand. The company aims to leverage these factors to strengthen its footprint and accelerate growth in the region.

Malhotra’s appointment reflects Nippon Paint’s commitment to empowering local leadership and deepening its engagement in one of the world’s fastest-growing economies.