28th August 2025: Century Plyboards (India) Ltd., one of India’s most respected names in building materials, has taken a decisive step towards the future with the launch of AIgnite—a transformative, organisation-wide initiative created to embed Generative AI across every function and leadership tier.
Century Plyboards has collaborated with TimesPro, a leading partner in learning and capability building, to design AIgnite. The initiative delivers a robust AI in Action programme, a year-long learning journey structured to equip CenturyPly teams with the tools, frameworks and mindset essential for leadership in an AI-driven era.
The inaugural session, AI for Leadership, witnessed enthusiastic participation, led by Padma Shri Sajjan Bhajanka, Chairman; Shri Sanjay Agarwal, Managing Director; members of the Promoter Board; and senior executives across business functions. The session focused on how Generative AI can power bold decision-making, accelerate innovation, and refine operational intelligence.
The AIgnite initiative will extend to functional teams across Sales, Marketing, Finance, HR, Procurement, IT and SCM, with domain-specific tracks designed to weave Generative AI into both routine and strategic workflows. Powered by TimesPro’s AI in Action framework, the programme follows a three-tier learning model: CXO & Leadership Strategy Sessions, Function-Centric Hands-On Training Labs and Refresher & Use-Case Deep Dive Modules. Each module draws on real-world simulations and outcome-driven learning, from creating persuasive sales narratives and personalising marketing campaigns to automating finance reporting, streamlining procurement processes, and enhancing IT ticketing and governance.
Arun Kabra, President & CFO – Enterprise Solutions, TimesPro, “At TimesPro, we believe that true transformation is not about learning tools – it’s about rewiring thinking. Our collaboration with CenturyPly is a shining example of how AI can move from the periphery to the core of business strategy when paired with the right intent, architecture and leadership sponsorship.”
Century Ply’s HR team has been pivotal in this journey, leveraging Generative AI to enhance recruitment, personalise employee communications, track sentiment, and foster a culture of adaptability and experimentation. Rakesh Tiga, CHRO, CenturyPly, remarked, “AIgnite is not about adopting a tool – it’s about evolving a mindset. As our teams gain new digital capabilities, we’re also reshaping the way they collaborate, ideate, and grow. This is how we build a future-ready CenturyPly – with technology in our hands and purpose in our hearts.”
The initiative is being thoughtfully implemented by the Learning & Development team under the leadership of Kapil Anand to ensure maximum relevance and engagement across functions. More than a digital upskilling programme, AIgnite represents a broader people transformation agenda.
By introducing AIgnite, CenturyPly positions itself among India’s most progressive organisations—proactively shaping its role in the AI revolution rather than simply responding to it.
