Asian Paints Names Leo Puri as Next Chairman Amid Intensifying Competition

Asian Paints has announced Leo Puri as its next chairman-designate. He will take over from R. Seshasayee on January 23, 2027, who is concluding his second term as an independent director on January 22, 2027. The appointment comes at a critical time for the company, which faces increasing competition in the decorative paints market.

Puri brings decades of experience in banking, asset management, and private equity to the role. He has previously held senior positions at JPMorgan Chase, UTI Asset Management, and Warburg Pincus. Currently, he serves as India advisory chair at Apax Partners and is chairman of Fortis Healthcare.

Asian Paints' executive leadership remains unchanged with Amit Syngle at the helm as Managing Director and CEO. Manish Choksi continues to serve as non-executive vice-chairman.

The company faces stiff competition from rivals such as Birla Opus, which has expanded its distribution network to over 50,000 dealers across more than 11,500 towns. JSW Paints also strengthened its position by acquiring a controlling stake in Akzo Nobel India in December 2025.