Sharad Malhotra has been appointed as the Managing Director of Nippon Paint India, effective December 1, 2025, marking a significant milestone as he becomes the first Indian to hold this position in the company’s history. Malhotra succeeds Jon Tan and will report directly to Wee Siew Kim, Co-President of Nippon Paint Holdings and Group CEO of the NIPSEA Group.
With over 15 years of experience at Nippon Paint, Malhotra has been instrumental in building the company’s automotive refinish, wood coatings, and light industrial coatings businesses in India.
His leadership has also driven Nippon Paint’s global automotive aftermarket business from India, a category he has overseen since its inception. In his new role, Malhotra will guide the overall strategy and direction of Nippon Paint India, focusing on sustainable growth across all segments of the paint market. He plans to pursue product diversification, technological investments, and sustainable practices tailored to the unique needs of the Indian market.
Nippon Paint, headquartered in Japan and the fourth largest paint company globally by revenue, views India as a strategic growth market due to its large, young population, expanding infrastructure, and economic potential. The company’s CEO praised Malhotra’s proven ability to deliver results, deep business understanding, and commitment to excellence, expressing confidence in his leadership to drive the next phase of growth in India.
Malhotra expressed honor at leading Nippon Paint India during this pivotal period and looks forward to expanding opportunities for the business while supporting customers and partners in the rapidly evolving Indian market.