Kansai Nerolac Paints Limited, one of India’s top paint manufacturers, has officially announced a key leadership transition. After a remarkable 36-year journey, Mr. P.D. Pai, the company’s long-serving Chief Financial Officer (CFO), will retire on July 31, 2025. Stepping into his shoes is Mr. Yash Ahuja, who will assume charge as CFO and Chief Risk Officer (CRO) from August 1, 2025.
A Legacy of Excellence: Retirement of P.D. Pai
Mr. P.D. Pai has been a part of Kansai Nerolac for nearly four decades, significantly contributing to the company’s growth, stability, and reputation in the Indian paint industry. His retirement marks the end of a noteworthy era. The Board of Directors expressed deep appreciation for Pai's leadership, dedication, and long-standing service.
Meet Yash Ahuja – The New CFO & Chief Risk Officer
Mr. Yash Ahuja, currently serving as Senior Vice President – Finance (CFO Designate), will officially take over as the new CFO and CRO of Kansai Nerolac Paints from August 1, 2025. His appointment has been approved by the Board of Directors, based on recommendations from the Nomination and Remuneration Committee and Audit Committee.
Yash Ahuja’s Impressive Background
Mr. Ahuja brings over 24 years of experience in finance, strategic planning, and risk management. His academic and professional credentials include:
Associate Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India (ICAI)
Bachelor of Commerce, South City College, Calcutta University
Executive Education from the University of California, Berkeley – Haas School of Business
He has previously worked with reputed organizations such as:
Panasonic Life Solutions India Pvt. Ltd.
Wrigley India
Hewlett-Packard
General Electric (GE)
SpiceJet Limited
His broad exposure across industries positions him well to lead Kansai Nerolac’s financial strategies going forward.
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Strategic Leadership for the Future
In his dual role as CFO and Chief Risk Officer, Mr. Ahuja will oversee:
Financial planning and forecasting
Regulatory compliance and reporting
Risk mitigation and governance
Capital allocation and cost optimization
This transition also reflects Kansai Nerolac’s continued focus on strengthening its leadership team to drive sustainable growth and innovation in the evolving paint and coatings market.
Board Resolutions & Key Managerial Changes
Along with the CFO appointment, Kansai Nerolac Paints also updated its Key Managerial Personnel (KMP) records and revised authorizations for determining the materiality of events, aligning with corporate governance norms.
Final Words
With P.D. Pai’s distinguished exit and Yash Ahuja’s entry as the new CFO, Kansai Nerolac is poised for its next growth phase. Ahuja’s rich experience and strategic mindset are expected to bring fresh momentum to the company’s financial and risk management functions, ensuring continued trust among stakeholders and investors.
