Panasonic Chairman Steps Down for New Growth Opportunity
- After more than a decade leading Panasonic's Indian operations, Manish Sharma has stepped down as Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India.
- Manish Sharma resigned from his position as Chairman of Panasonic Life solutions India, concluding a long association with the company that began in 2008.
- Sharma's departure follows a period of significant change for Panasonic in India, including the exit from the refrigerator and washing machine segments earlier in 2024.
Manish Sharma Resigns as Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India
Table of Contents
After more than a decade leading Panasonic’s Indian operations, Manish Sharma has stepped down as Chairman of Panasonic Life Solutions India. His tenure saw significant restructuring and strategic shifts for the company in a challenging market.
updated November 7, 2025, 18:10:27
Key Developments
Manish Sharma resigned from his position as Chairman of Panasonic Life solutions India, concluding a long association with the company that began in 2008. He previously served as Managing Director & CEO from 2012 and became chairman in 2021.
Sharma’s departure follows a period of significant change for Panasonic in India, including the exit from the refrigerator and washing machine segments earlier in 2024. This decision was part of a broader global restructuring effort by the Japanese appliance and consumer electronics manufacturer.
Both the refrigerator and washing machine businesses were reportedly loss-making for Panasonic in India, where the company struggled to gain significant market share, according to data from GFK.
Career Trajectory
Sharma joined panasonic in August 2008 as Head of Marketing, Consumer Electronics & Home Appliances. Prior to joining Panasonic, he held positions at Haier India, LG Electronics India, and Color Television.
His progression within Panasonic included becoming MD & CEO in 2012, an Executive Committee member of Panasonic Corporation in 2016, and ultimately Chairman in 2021. He is an alumnus of Bhilai Institute of Technology.
Panasonic’s Restructuring in India
panasonic Life Solutions India was formed through the merger of Panasonic India, Anchor Electricals, Panasonic Energy, and Panasonic Carbon. This consolidation aimed to streamline operations and improve efficiency.
The exit from the refrigerator and washing machine segments highlights the challenges faced by international appliance brands in the competitive Indian market. Industry insiders suggest that Panasonic encountered headwinds following this strategic shift.