Panasonic India Chairman Steps Down After 17-Year Stint

Manish Sharma, the long-standing Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India (PLSIND), has resigned from his post to pursue new professional growth opportunities outside the organization, concluding a transformative 17-year tenure with the Japanese electronics major.

Manish, who was instrumental in steering the company’s business strategy and growth trajectory in India, announced his personal decision in a company town hall.

The exit marks a significant leadership change for Panasonic in India and signals a return to Japanese leadership at the top, with Tadashi Chiba, the current Managing Director and CEO of Panasonic Life Solutions India, continuing to manage the India business and assuming additional responsibilities during the transition.

A company spokesperson confirmed Manish’s departure was a personal, thoughtful decision taken in mutual agreement to pursue new aspirations, which he indicated would remain aligned with accelerating the manufacturing growth of the country.

Manish has confirmed he will announce his next move in January 2026 after serving his notice period.

Panasonic India Outgoing Chairman: A Legacy of Leadership and Indianisation

Manish Sharma’s career at Panasonic, which began in August 2008 as the Head of Marketing, is widely regarded as a period of significant growth and strategic realignment for the company in the challenging Indian market.

Pioneering Indian Leadership: Manish was a pioneering figure, becoming the first Indian and the youngest leader to be appointed as an Executive Officer. This appointment occurred at the global Panasonic Corporation in 2016. Panasonic elevated him to the position of MD & CEO of Panasonic India in 2012. He later became Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India in 2021.
Business Diversification: Under his leadership, Panasonic successfully transformed its India operations. It shifted its focus from primarily Consumer Electronics (B2C) to a diversified solutions-oriented organization (B2B and B2G). This strategic shift involved aggressive expansion into industrial devices, smart factory solutions, and automation. These B2B segments now exceed ₹1,000 crore in revenue.
Market Position and Manufacturing: During his tenure, Panasonic became a visible player in fast-growing segments like Room ACs and LED Televisions. The company also became a competitive force within those segments. Manish was a strong proponent of the Indian government’s “Make in India” initiative, overseeing the expansion of Panasonic’s local manufacturing capabilities. This included establishing the company’s largest manufacturing facility in Jhajjar, Haryana. India has recently emerged as the second-biggest market globally for Panasonic’s ACs.

Industry Influence and Policy Contributions

Beyond his corporate role, Manish played an influential role in shaping India’s broader electronics and manufacturing policy landscape. He leveraged his expertise to drive growth and local value addition across the industry.

FICCI and PLI: He chaired the Electronics Manufacturing Committee of the industry body FICCI. He was also instrumental in advocating for and developing the first PLI scheme for white goods (Air Conditioners and LED Lights).
Government Advisory: Manish was a key member of the SCALE Committee (Steering Committee on Advancing Local value-add & Exports). The Indian government established this committee to boost local manufacturing and exports.
Industry Association: He also led the Consumer Electronics and Appliances Manufacturers Association (CEAMA) as its President from 2014 to 2018.

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