Mr. Rahul Gautam

(BT/CHE/1975)

Rahul Gautam is a prominent Indian Entrepreneur & Industrialist, known for his Leadership in the Polyurethane Foam Industry. He is the Exec. Chairman of Sheela Foam Ltd., India, and serves as the Chairman of its subsidiaries Joyce Foam, Australia, and Interplasp, Spain. Sheela Foam was founded in 1971 by Rahul Gautam and his mother, Ms. Sheela Gautam, a 4-term Member of Parliament.

Profile

Mr. Gautam holds a Bachelor's degree in Chemical Engineering from IIT Kanpur, a Master's in Chemical Engineering from NYU, USA, and a Doctorate in Global Leadership and Management from the European International University.

With over five decades of experience in the home comfort and polyurethane (PU) foam industry, Mr. Rahul Gautam has played a pivotal role in shaping and advancing the sector in India and internationally. As Executive Chairman of Sheela Foam Ltd., he has been instrumental in expanding the company's operations beyond India to include manufacturing facilities in Australia and Spain. He led the development of the Sleepwell brand in 1994, which became synonymous with Quality MaJresses & Bedding Products in India.

Mr. Gautam is the Founder and Chairman Emeritus of the Indian Polyurethane Association (IPUA) and a Founder Member of the Global Polyurethane Group. He has been instrumental in establishing major industry events like the Polyurethane Summit (PuTech) and has significantly contributed to advancing PU Technology and Awareness in the country. In 2023, he successfully coordinated the acquisition of Kurlon.

He has been featured in the book "100 Great IITians: Dedicated to the Service of the Nation" for his dedicated service in shaping the economic landscape of India. His remarkable achievements have rightfully earned him a place amongst those who refused to be lured by the West and contributed significantly to India's growth In recognition of his exemplary contributions, Mr. Gautam has received several prestigious honours, including the Pride of Bharat Award,.

Mr. Gautam maintains a strong commitment to education and social development. Through the Sleepwell Foundation, he has supported several impactful CSR initiatives. These include the adoption of an all-women's Industrial Training Institute (ITI) in Delhi, the establishment of an academic Chair at IIT Kanpur, and the operation of skill development and armed forces training centers in Khurja, Uttar Pradesh. He is also actively involved in programs that promote emotional, creative, and intellectual wellness. Mr.Rahul Gautam enjoys Outdoor Sports, Reading Books on Management & Philosophy, Listening to Indian Classical Instrumental Music, & Supporting Educational Activities.

Achievements and Honors

• Pride of Bharat Award.
• "Lifetime Achievement Award" by Indian Polyurethane Association (IPUA).
• "Distinguished Alumnus Award" by IIT Kanpur (2017)