New Delhi, India, November 2025 — Sharad Malhotra has been appointed as Managing Director of Nippon Paint India, marking a significant milestone in his 15-year journey with the NIPSEA Group | Nippon Paint. In his previous leadership roles, including President – Automotive and Wood Coatings and Senior Vice President, he has played an instrumental role in expanding the company’s business footprint, strengthening its operational capabilities, and advancing product innovation across strategic coatings segments in India.
Over the years at Nippon Paint India, Sharad has led transformative initiatives across the automotive refinishes and wood coatings portfolio. His leadership has been pivotal in driving customer engagement, enhancing channel strength, and building strong relationships across OEMs, body shops, distribution networks, and industrial partners. His vision has consistently focused on operational excellence, enhanced supply chain efficiency, and sustainable value creation.
Before joining Nippon Paint, Sharad worked with AkzoNobel Car Refinishes, where he managed trade development and automotive paints growth across the Asia region, strengthening business relationships and developing new markets. His experience played a key role in preparing him to lead cross-country functions and high-impact commercial strategies.
Prior to that, at ICI Limited, he drove key automotive coatings initiatives and customer partnerships, gaining extensive exposure to product development, market positioning, and customer operations. His work during this period contributed to robust business growth and strengthened brand relationships within the automotive coatings sector.
He began his career with Sumitomo Corporation, where he focused on developing trade partnerships and managing automotive business portfolios in India. His early experience honed his strategic mindset and global business understanding, which continued to shape his leadership throughout his professional journey.
With over two decades of experience in the coatings, automotive, and industrial sectors, Sharad brings deep customer insight, a passion for sustainability, and a strong commitment to building future-ready growth strategies at Nippon Paint India.
About Nippon Paint India
Nippon Paint India is part of Nippon Paint, one of the world’s leading paint and coatings manufacturers with over 143 years of global leadership. The company offers high-quality, innovative, and eco-friendly products across decorative, automotive, and industrial coatings categories. With a presence across 31 countries, Nippon Paint is committed to elevating the quality of life through technology-led solutions that are safe, durable, and environmentally responsible.
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