Delhi: AVPN, Asia’s largest network of social investors, has announced the appointment of Achal Agarwal as the new Chair of its Board of Directors, effective 1 July 2025. Achal succeeds Veronica Colondam, who has served as Chair since 2021 and guided the organisation through a pivotal phase of expansion.
Achal has a longstanding association with AVPN, having served on the board from 2016 to 2019 and rejoining in 2024. His strategic insight has played a critical role in shaping AVPN’s mission to mobilise more capital for impact across Asia. In his new leadership role, Achal will drive the network’s strategic priorities and help scale its mission.
“I am honoured to take on the role of Chair at AVPN,” said Achal Agarwal. “This is a time of tremendous momentum for the impact sector in Asia. I look forward to building on the strong foundation laid by Veronica, while bringing fresh perspectives to scale our collective ambition. AVPN is uniquely positioned to drive meaningful change by connecting capital to need — and I am pleased to contribute more deeply to that journey.”
Naina Subberwal Batra, CEO of AVPN, welcomed the appointment, highlighting Achal’s proven track record and vision, “Achal has been a trusted board member and advisor. His deep expertise in business transformation and strong commitment to sustainability make him an ideal Chair for AVPN’s next phase of growth. I am confident he will guide AVPN with both clarity and ambition.”
She added, “My sincere thanks to Veronica, whose steady leadership and passion were instrumental during a pivotal period of our expansion.”
Achal currently serves as an Independent Non-Executive Director at Amcor PLC and SATS Ltd., and is a Council Member of WWF Singapore’s Conservation Fund, previously also serving as Chairman of WWF Singapore. A seasoned global executive, he held several leadership roles at Kimberly-Clark Corporation, including Global Chief Strategy and Transformation Officer and President – Asia Pacific, and previously at PepsiCo in senior roles across China, Africa, and India.
Recognised by CNBC in 2016 as Asia Business Leader of the Year, Achal is widely known for turning around underperforming markets and building strong regional growth. He is based in Singapore and continues to champion sustainability and transformative impact across the region through his leadership at AVPN.
