Arvind Kumar, currently serving as director (refineries) at IndianOil, has assumed additional charge as Director (Pipelines), further reinforcing the company’s leadership depth. With over 35 years of experience in the petroleum industry, Kumar has earned widespread recognition for his expertise in refining operations, project execution, and strategic leadership.
A Career Built on Operational Excellence
Before his current tenure as director (refineries), which began in 2024, he served as CEO and Managing Director of Chennai Petroleum Corporation Limited (CPCL) from 2021 to 2024. Under his leadership, CPCL witnessed exceptional improvements in both operational efficiency and financial performance, earning it the prestigious Schedule ‘A’ company status.
Leadership in Key Roles and Projects
Throughout his career at IndianOil, Kumar has held several crucial roles. He was Executive Director (projects) and later the Executive Director and Refinery Head at Mathura Refinery during 2020–21. His leadership was instrumental in managing mega-scale refinery and petrochemical projects. His Level A Certification (Certified Project Director) from the International Project Management Association (IPMA) underlines his proficiency in project execution.
Recognition and Industry Contributions
In July 2024, IIT Madras honoured Kumar with the ‘Exemplary Business Leadership Award’ for his outstanding contributions to industry-academia collaboration, innovation, and research. His influence also extends to policy and governance; he is currently a member of the Executive Board of SCOPE (Standing Conference of Public Enterprises) for the 2025–27 term. Additionally, he serves as Chairman of Cauvery Basin Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (CBRPL), Nagapattinam, and as nominee director on the board of Ratnagiri Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited (RRPCL).
Strengthening Energy Security through Pipeline Infrastructure
Arvind Kumar will now lead IndianOil’s pipeline operations, a vital part of India’s energy supply chain. Drawing on his broad-based experience and visionary leadership, he will drive the strategic expansion and boost the operational efficiency of IndianOil’s vast pipeline network, ensuring energy is transported across the country in a timely and sustainable manner. As per company press release, IndianOil’s decision to entrust Kumar with this dual role reflects its confidence in his capability to uphold and enhance the corporation’s commitment to delivering efficient, reliable, and sustainable energy solutions nationwide.
