The Indo-American Arts Council, IAAC, has appointed business leader and philanthropist Sanat Chattopadhyay as Vice Chairman of its Board effective May 1, 2026.
Chattopadhyay brings to IAAC “a distinguished record of executive leadership, strategic vision and deep support for Indian and Indian-American institutions and causes,” the June 4, 2026 press release said.
The IAAC, is a non-profit arts organization dedicated to promoting, showcasing, and building awareness of the arts and artists whose heritage lies in the Indian subcontinent.
As President of Merck Manufacturing, Chattopadhyay oversees global manufacturing and supply operations for pharmaceuticals, vaccines, biologics and animal health products. Over the course of his career, he has helped lead major global healthcare initiatives, including the expansion of Gardasil and the launch of KEYTRUDA, while also serving on several influential boards in the U.S. – India corridor, the press release noted.
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“Sanat is a remarkable leader with global stature, operational depth, and an abiding commitment to giving back,” Chairman of the Indo-American Arts Council, Dr. Nirmal Mattoo, is quoted saying. He praised Chattopadhyay for his “judgment, generosity, and passion for mobilizing institutions,” qualities he said which will be of enormous value to IAAC.
“With Sanat joining Rakesh Kaul in the role of Vice Chairman, IAAC will now benefit from the strength of two Vice Chairmen as we advance our cultural mission with greater leadership depth and momentum,” Mattoo added.
“I am honored to join IAAC as Vice Chairman of the Board,” Chattopadhyay said. “IAAC has built an extraordinary legacy over the last twenty-six years by championing artistic excellence, cultural dialogue, and the creative spirit of the Indian diaspora. I look forward to working closely with the Board and leadership team to help make a transformational difference in the organization’s next phase of growth and impact.”
Board Member, Indo-American Arts Council Rajeev Kaul, said, “He has the rare combination of discipline, warmth, curiosity, and cultural engagement that makes him an exceptional fit for IAAC. His wide-ranging interests, including film and acting, give him a natural affinity with IAAC’s mission to celebrate and elevate the arts.”
Chattopadhyay holds a degree in Chemical Engineering from Jadavpur University and a postgraduate degree from the Indian Institute of Management, Mumbai. In addition to his corporate leadership, he serves on the Boards of Governors of IIM Mumbai, the USA-India Chamber of Commerce, and the USA-India Strategic Partnership Forum. His philanthropic contributions have supported COVID-19 aid to India, the Ramakrishna Mission, Jadavpur University, and the Indo-American Arts Council.