Shailesh Chandra elected OICA President, becomes first Indian to head global automotive body

The Organisation Internationale des Constructeurs d'Automobiles (OICA) has announced the election of Shailesh Chandra as its new President, effective November 1, 2025. His appointment marks the first time an Indian has been elected to lead the global federation representing motor vehicle manufacturers.

Chandra, who currently serves as President of the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) and Managing Director and CEO of Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles Ltd and Tata Passenger Electric Mobility Ltd, succeeds John Bozzella, President and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation (USA).

Commenting on his election, Chandra said: "It is an honour to become the first OICA President from India, which is highlighting the organisation's global representation. As the global automotive industry transitions towards sustainable mobility and pursuits 'Net Zero', in alignment with the visions of governments worldwide, the role of OICA becomes increasingly critical -- to acknowledge the diversity of every region, as we collectively strive to make our vehicles more aspirational, safer and environmentally friendly."

An alumnus of IIT Varanasi and SP Jain Institute of Management and Research, Chandra also holds a Fulbright-Nehru Fellowship at Carnegie Mellon University. With over two decades of experience at Tata Motors, he has held leadership roles across corporate strategy and electric mobility. His tenure has been credited with driving the turnaround of Tata Motors' passenger vehicle business and establishing its leadership in India's electric vehicle segment.