PPG Industries Inc (NYSE: PPG) has announced the appointment of Justin Epler as Vice President of Industrial Coatings for the Americas, effective August 1, 2026. Epler will report directly to Juliane Hefel, Senior Vice President of Industrial Coatings and Specialty Products, succeeding Hendekea Azene, who is departing the company to pursue external opportunities.

With over 15 years of experience at PPG Industries Inc, Epler previously served as General Manager of Industrial Coatings for Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). During his tenure in that role, he drove significant performance improvements across the region by strengthening commercial excellence and standardizing planning processes. Earlier in his career, Epler spent nearly five years as Director of Coil and Building Products for the Americas within the Industrial Coatings division. He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing and International Business Management from Saint Vincent College.

Hefel noted that Epler has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to customers and a deep understanding of their needs throughout his career, highlighting his listening, communication, and execution skills as defining characteristics of his work. In his new role, Epler will focus on deepening customer partnerships, driving sustained growth in the Americas, and ensuring that high-level service and technical expertise remain at the forefront of all operations.

Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PPG Industries Inc operates in more than 50 countries worldwide, generating net sales of $15.9 billion in 2025. The company serves markets including architecture, consumer products, industrial applications, and transportation.