Leon Topalian Appointed to PPG Board of Directors
PPG Industries has announced that Leon J. Topalian, Chair, President, and CEO of Nucor Corporation, will join its Board of Directors effective July 16, 2025. Topalian is set to serve on both the Audit Committee and the Sustainability and Innovation Committee, bringing nearly three decades of industrial leadership to PPG’s governance team .
A Proven Industrial Leader
Topalian’s career at Nucor, North America’s largest and most diversified steel producer, spans nearly 30 years. He began as a project engineer at Nucor Steel Berkeley in 1996 and steadily advanced through various leadership roles. He served as Vice President from 2013 to 2017, Executive Vice President of Beam and Plate Products from 2017 to 2019, and President and Chief Operating Officer in 2019. In 2020, he ascended to the role of President and CEO, and by 2022, he was appointed Chair of the Board .
Strategic Fit for PPG’s Vision
Michael W. Lamach, PPG’s Lead Independent Director, emphasized the strategic importance of Topalian’s appointment: “We are pleased to welcome Leon to the board, as his proven leadership and industry experience will further strengthen PPG and guide its strategic direction” .
Timothy M. Knavish, PPG’s Chairman and CEO, added, “Leon brings nearly 30 years of experience in manufacturing and operations with a major industrial company that serves similar end-use markets as PPG. His leadership and extensive experience driving business growth will provide valuable expertise to PPG and our leadership team” .
Sustainability and Financial Oversight
Topalian’s appointment to the Sustainability and Innovation Committee aligns with PPG’s commitment to environmental stewardship. Under his leadership, Nucor has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint, achieving 0.77 tons of CO₂ per ton of steel, well below the global average of 1.92 tons. His experience with sustainable practices is expected to bolster PPG’s environmental initiatives.
In addition, his role on the Audit Committee will leverage his extensive experience in financial oversight, ensuring robust governance and accountability within PPG’s operations.
PPG: WE PROTECT AND BEAUTIFY THE WORLD®
At PPG (NYSE:PPG), we work every day to develop and deliver the paints, coatings and specialty materials that our customers have trusted for more than 140 years. Through dedication and creativity, we solve our customers’ biggest challenges, collaborating closely to find the right path forward. With headquarters in Pittsburgh, we operate and innovate in more than 70 countries and reported net sales of $15.8 billion in 2024. We serve customers in construction, consumer products, industrial and transportation markets and aftermarkets.
About PPG Industries
Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PPG Industries is a global leader in paints, coatings, and specialty materials. With operations in over 70 countries, PPG reported net sales of $15.8 billion in 2024. The company serves a diverse range of markets, including construction, consumer products, industrial, and transportation sectors .
PPG’s enduring commitment to innovation and sustainability is encapsulated in its mission: “We protect and beautify the world.” The company continues to focus on developing solutions that address its customers’ most pressing challenges while promoting environmental responsibility.
As of April 23, 2025, PPG’s stock is trading at $101.78, reflecting investor confidence in the company’s strategic direction and leadership.
Topalian’s addition to the board is anticipated to enhance PPG’s strategic capabilities, particularly in areas of sustainability and financial governance, as the company continues to navigate the evolving industrial landscape.
