T. P. Balachandar is a faculty member in the Leather Design Department and currently serves as the Campus Coordinator. He holds an undergraduate degree in Leather Technology and a postgraduate degree in Footwear Science and Engineering. He brings extensive professional experience from the leather and footwear industry, where he worked for 14 years in various roles and levels. He joined NIFT in 2014 and has around twelve years of experience as a faculty member. His areas of expertise include leather design, footwear and accessories design, leather processing, and innovative material applications.

His research interests focus on green leather processing, eco-friendly leather processing methods, leather upgradation and finishing techniques, surface techniques on leather, footwear and accessories design, non-leather materials, and speciality footwear design. His professional experience in the leather and footwear industry supports his academic engagement with sustainable processing, material innovation, surface development, and contemporary footwear applications. He continues to contribute to teaching, academic activities, and the development of industry-oriented knowledge and skills among students in the field of leather and footwear design.

Beyond his academic and professional responsibilities, T. P. Balachandar takes an active interest in cycling and trekking, which reflect his enthusiasm for outdoor activities and an active lifestyle. As Campus Coordinator, he also contributes to institutional activities, student engagement, and the smooth coordination of campus-related responsibilities. His combination of industry experience, academic expertise, administrative responsibilities, and personal interests provides students with a practical and well-rounded perspective on the leather, footwear, and design sectors.