About Us

Ankur Tripathi, Chief Information Officer at AU Small Finance Bank, brings over 20 years of diverse experience across industries and has been instrumental in shaping AU’s technology vision. Over the last 12 years with AU, Ankur has led the Bank’s Technology and Digital Initiatives from inception, driving its evolution from a Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) to a Small Finance Bank (SFB) and now steering its transition toward becoming a Universal Bank.

He has been instrumental in pioneering app-based banking through AU0101, creating a seamless digital experience for customers and building tech-ready stacks that positioned the Bank as a leader in digital innovation.

Ankur is at the forefront of AI-driven interventions, leveraging advanced analytics and automation to enhance customer engagement, operational efficiency, and risk management setting the foundation for AU’s next phase of growth.

Before joining AU, Ankur co-founded a start-up focused on developing next-generation frameworks and solutions for the Indian logistics market, showcasing his entrepreneurial spirit and deep understanding of emerging technologies.

Mr. Khandelwal’s journey with AU Bank began in 2016, during the transformation of AU from a NBFC to a Small Finance Bank. He has witnessed and contributed to several Bank’s milestones — securing Small Finance Bank license, attaining Scheduled Bank status, the amalgamation of Fincare SFB with AU SFB, and most recent one, RBI’s in-principal approval for transitioning into a Universal Bank.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?

Joining AU was a turning point that shaped me as a leader. Transitioning from established banks to a rapidly growing institution taught me to lead with vision. It helped me develop attention to detail, nurture talent, and foster a collaborative spirit to succeed together.

How do you stay motivated each day? 

The responsibility I carry to uphold this organization’s compliance and integrity is the driving force behind my motivation. 

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

My values align with our Bank’s core leadership principles — Samajhdari, Zimmedari, & Immandari.

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?

I’ve been fortunate to work with amazing leaders throughout my journey. Each has influenced me in unique ways — through their progressive outlook, decision-making skills, or team-building abilities — shaping the professional that I am today.

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?

I often revisit Shiv Khera’s You Can Win: A Step-by-Step Tool for Top Achievers, especially the quote:

“Winners don’t do different things, they do things differently.”

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?

Future leaders must adopt a process-driven approach over a people-driven mindset along with self-belief, agility, and a strong commitment to delivery.

One word that describes you best?

Assertive

One message you would like to give the readers.

“Trust is the wealth we create in banking, and compliance is what protects and preserves it. When each of us chooses to do what is right, we strengthen not just our bank, but the faith our customers place in us.”

Mr. Bhaskar Karkera brings over 3 decades of experience across OEMs, NBFCs and Banking. He has held leadership roles in renowned organizations such as Mahindra Group and HDFC Bank. Known for his strategic mindset and empathetic leadership style, Mr. Bhaskar has consistently driven growth and managed business in the retail lending space.

At AU Small Finance Bank, he began his journey with the Wheels business, later managing the Mortgages and Gold Loans business. He currently handles the entire gamut of secured Retail Assets business.

Here, we dive into Mr. Karkera’s journey—from his early career lessons to what drives him today. Discover his thoughts on leadership, culture, and how to have a purposeful professional life.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?

At an early stage in my career working with people & leading team was an area of interest that I had, & I continued to build this in my career journey. Leadership for me is about being in Present, Being Approachable, and Being Part of the Journey.

How do you stay motivated each day?

What drives me every day is the pursuit of bringing simplicity in processes and fostering a solution-oriented mindset within our teams. This approach makes the franchise more stable, scalable, and soulful. Knowing that I’m creating clarity and confidence for people gives me a sense of fulfilment—and that’s what sparks my day.

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

Purpose-Driven Impact: I believe in creating real change—not just numbers, but outcomes that improve lives.

Customer Centricity: Whether it’s a first-time borrower or a seasoned entrepreneur, our solutions must be simple, accessible, and empowering.

Integrity & Consistency: In business, trust is everything. “Do what is right, not what is easy.” That’s the principle I live by.

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?

“At every stage of life, there are mentors who guide you toward becoming a better version of yourself. I believe there isn’t just one mentor in a career journey—I’ve had many who have shaped my thinking, values, and approach along the way.”

I’m deeply grateful to all the mentors who have guided me along the way, each leaving a unique imprint on my journey.

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?

“One quote I live by is “मिलो, माँगो, मिलेगा”. It’s simple, but powerful. If you seek with intent, you’ll find what you’re looking for. This quote reminds me daily that initiative and ownership are the real game-changers.

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?

The world is changing fast, and so must our leadership. Tomorrow’s leaders need to be more than just sharp - they need to be empathetic, digitally fluent, and having a grounded character is important. Yes, technology is important, but it should never replace the human touch. It should support it. Leadership today is less about giving orders and more about building people & making future ready.

Also, it’s important to find your balance. Between ambition and home. Between speed and stillness. Between data and intuition. That balance is what makes leadership sustainable.

One Word that describe you best?

People’s Person – I believe in truly knowing my people, understanding diverse personalities, and connecting with each individual in a way that resonates with them. Every person is unique, and effective leadership lies in understanding & working along.

Message/s you would like to give to the readers.

Stay Healthy, keep moving forward, New Learnings and Build with purpose.

Lead from real experience, real data & real trends.

Listen more, stay curious, and aim for excellence.

Mr. Jain’s association with AU Small Finance Bank began in May 2010, at a pivotal time when AU was laying the foundation for its presence in the financial services landscape. Over the past 15+ years, Mr. Jain has played a transformative role in shaping AU’s growth story — from its early days as a finance company to its emergence as a trusted Small Finance Bank.

A Chartered Accountant by qualification, Mr. Jain brings over 27 years of multifaceted experience across Finance, Operations, Audit, IT, and Risk Management.

Mr. Jain’s journey is not just one of professional progression — it is a story of dedication, transformation, and unwavering belief in AU’s purpose.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?

AU’s transition into a Small Finance Bank was that defining moment. The scale of growth and approach demanded clarity, speed, and resilience. That phase taught, that leadership is not just managing, it is about enabling transformation. It helped in shaping my leadership approach to always be aligned with the bigger purpose.

How do you stay motivated each day?

By staying anchored to purpose with tranquillity.

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

The value of taking ownership of outcomes, and by staying anchored to the larger mission. These values guide and help me to take the professional decisions.

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?

My colleagues ,my Family, all my near and dear ones are the biggest Mentors for me as they teach me something daily about life.

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?

"सपने वो नहीं होते जो हम सोते समय देखते हैं, सपने वो होते हैं जो हमें सोने नहीं देते।" " by Dr. APJ Abdul Kalam

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?

Adaptability, Strategic Thinking, and Empathy.

One word that describes you best?

Execution – it is the key Mantra of Success.

One message you would like to give the readers.

Be Focus on your work, goal of life and think deeply to execute better.

Mr. Shah brings in more than three decades of experience into Banking with a stellar contribution in ICICI Bank, HDFC Bank and Yes Bank. In his previous organisation he has successfully built retail liability franchisee. He brings in a diversified experience of handling Liability & Asset franchisee in Retail & SME Banking space, Transaction Banking & Corporate Finance.

Mr. Shah believes in building ecosystem for employees to help them grow and build sustainable business models. He is constant learner, inquisitive and fast to spot opportunities to make a difference.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?

The day I decided to move to Mumbai, a financial hub to build career in banking. Each organisation I worked, gave me tremendous opportunity to shape me as better individual & professional leader. From learning to adapt to different cultures, embrace ever evolving technology, build long term vision, entrepreneurial mindset to build businesses & navigating polarities.

How do you stay motivated each day?

So much to do..and so little time. I am a continuous learner with inquisitive mind, each interaction with team, colleagues, customers & stakeholders provide an opportunity to learn, improve, innovate and build a scalable, sustainable and profitable business models. What keeps me going is belief in my team, colleagues and organisation, each wanting to contribute.

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

Empathy, Adaptability, Professionalism, Accountability & Respect

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?

My grandfather. I owe my foundation of discipline and character building to him.

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?
“A mind full of conclusions is a dead mind. A living mind is a free mind, learning, never concluding” - J. Krishnamurti

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?
Change is must. We are living in a fast-changing world full of uncertainty.

Think 5 -10 years ahead when you grow or build businesses. Build for future not for today!

Embrace technology, there is no escaping.

Learn new skills to stay relevant

We are in service industry, and we deal with people all around - their ego, emotions, expectations. Keep people at the centre of decisions, deal with humility

One word that describes you best?

Inquisitive

One message you would like to give to the readers.

Don't be hostage to narrow thinking in professional life. Do not get trapped by your own limited perspectives, biases, and routines. Actively seek out new ideas, consider diverse viewpoints, and challenge your own assumptions to foster innovation, growth, and more effective problem-solving.

Mr. Gaurav Jain is an all-India rank holder Chartered Accountant, MBA from the Kellogg School of Management and B. Com. (H) from Shri Ram College of Commerce. He is a seasoned leader with over two decades of global experience in investment banking, corporate strategy, digital transformation and audit across London, New York, and India. 

Mr. Jain has been associated with Bank since January 2021 and has played a key role in several major initiatives, including the acquisition of Fincare Small Finance Bank, the Bank’s Universal Banking license application, and the launch of Bank’s digital initiatives. Prior to joining the Bank, he has held leadership roles at Tech Mahindra (in India), Lloyds Banking Group (in London), Morgan Stanley (in New York and London) and PwC (in India). Outside work, he is an avid tennis player and a dedicated practitioner of meditation.

In this edition, we dive into Mr. Jain’s journey—from his early career lessons to what drives him today. Discover his thoughts on leadership, culture, and how to have a purposeful professional life.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?

There have been several key moments in my professional life that have shaped me as a leader. A few that spring to mind include pursuing my MBA at Kellogg, where the culture was deeply focused on collaboration and teamwork – one of the AU Dharmas; working at the epicenter of the global financial crisis in New York, which taught me resilience and adaptability under pressure; and, more recently, returning back to India and getting a chance to work closely with Sanjay Ji for AU. Each of these experiences has contributed to my growth, perspective, and approach to leadership.

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

Transparency, integrity, and accountability.

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?

My biggest influence has been my spiritual guru, Avdhoot Baba Shivanand ji. Over the past 12–13 years, his teachings have profoundly shaped my approach to both personal and professional life. He has taught me to live life 200%—100% spiritual and 100% worldly—emphasizing the importance of balance between inner growth and external achievement. Through ancient meditation protocols, I’ve learned how to cultivate clarity of mind, resilience, and a positive mindset. His guidance has helped me focus on what I truly want in life, remain present and enjoy every moment of the journey, and approach challenges with composure and gratitude.

How do you stay motivated each day?

Live life 200%

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?

I often return to two powerful quotes from my guru.
The first, “Tum chahte kya ho,” is a question that invites deep self-reflection and clarity of purpose.

The second, “Sab kuch tera bhav re,” reminds me to approach life with positive energy and gratitude.

These quotes continually inspire me to stay self-aware, grounded, and intentional—qualities I believe are essential for personal and professional growth.

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?

For future leaders, I think three core skills and mindsets are essential:

Self-awareness: Leaders must understand their strengths, weaknesses, and motivations. This enables them to make conscious decisions, adapt to change, and continuously grow.

Emotional Intelligence: The ability to recognize, understand, and manage one’s own emotions—and those of others—is critical. Handling emotions well fosters resilience, composure, and clarity, especially during times of uncertainty or rapid transformation.

Relationship Orientation: In a world which will become increasingly AI-powered, human connection is more important than ever. Leaders should prioritize building trust, empathy, and meaningful relationships.

One word that describes you best?

Resilient

One message you would like to give to the readers.

Enjoy the process / journey, its as much fun as getting to the destination.

Mr. Gupta’s association with AU Small Finance Bank began in March 2025. He has 24+ years of experience in Treasury products. His last stints before joining AU Bank were with HSBC Bank Malaysia & Standard Chartered Bank, India.

Let’s Get to Know This Leader Better

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?

It was COVID!

Pre-COVID, all global treasury dealing rooms were used to discussing work-related issues sitting next to each other. COVID made us WFH which made my team quite nervous. Treasury department errors can be costly & hence, their concern was understandable. I led by example by first adapting myself to remote-working IT solutions across treasury systems/communication tools & then encouraged the team to adapt too. I gave them the confidence that I have their back. Thereafter, it was a seamless working environment.

How do you stay motivated each day?
Responsibility.
My entire professional career has been in banking & financial services which instils in me a responsibility of imparting financial literacy to the communities around me.
However, on a separate note, it’s not easy for most of us to feel motivated each day. All of us go through our highs & lows but we need to remind ourselves of our purpose & keep going.

 
What values do you hold closest in your professional life?
Empathy & Honesty.
We are in the service industry. We serve customers as well as become customers ourselves. The best way to serve our customers is to put ourselves in their shoes & understand them better.
When I ask myself as a customer as to what I look for in my Bank, the answer is ‘honesty’.

 
Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?
I grew up listening to stories how our 1st PM J L Nehru laid the foundation of our institutional, industrial, educational framework that was commendable. Starting something from scratch is always much more difficult than taking over at a mature stage.

 
 What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?
"राह पकड़ तू एक चला चल, पा जाएगा मधुशाला।" from Madhushala, by Harivansh Rai Bachchan……. symbolizing perseverance and unwavering focus toward one’s goal.

 
What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?
Adaptability. Embracing change!
The available data is doubling every 2 years. A lot more perspectives abound on each issue & attention spans are becoming challenging.
It’s human for leaders to believe that they have so far done the right things. However, all leaders need to remember Marshall Goldsmith’s words – “What got you here won’t get you there.”
One word that describes you best.
Sincere

 
One message you would like to give to the readers.
Stay focused in whatever you do. Life is a test match. Don’t play it like a T20!

Mr. Parnami is a qualified Company Secretary and a law graduate. His stint with AU Bank started in August 2008 and since then he has handled important portfolios and is undertaking dual responsibility of Company Secretary and Compliance Officer.

He brings in more than 20 years of experience in the specialised field of Corporate Law, Secretarial Standards, Listing Compliance, Corporate Governance, Underwriting, Finance and Treasury. 

Purpose-driven decision-making capabilities and a holistic approach towards work are Mr. Parnami’s distinctive qualities.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?

“A turning point in my career was relocating to Mumbai in 2010 during the early years of my professional journey. This move exposed me to the dynamic BFSI sector and brought me into close interaction with key regulatory bodies such as SEBI, Stock Exchange, and Credit Rating Agencies. This experience significantly broadened my perspective and helped me to understand the scale at which financial institutions operate. Witnessing the entire ecosystem in action deepened my appreciation for strategic growth and inspired a mindset geared towards achieving larger milestones.”

How do you stay motivated each day?

Work, Family, Running and Meditation

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

Integrity, Hard Work, Never-Say-Die Spirit!

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?

“I’ve been fortunate to have the unwavering support and encouragement of Mr. Sanjay Agarwal – our MD & CEO. His belief in my potential has consistently inspired me to evolve, think to next level and improve as a professional This continuous motivation has not only helped me to grow but has also significantly enhanced my professional capabilities.”

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?

Books: Shrimad Bhagwat Gita

Quote: “भगवान सिर्फ उन्ही की सहायता करता है जो खुद अपनी सहायता स्वयं करते हैं” - स्वामी विवेकानंद

Podcast- Ms. B K Shivani (Living Values & Being Shakti)

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?

“In today’s rapidly evolving landscape, future leaders must embrace a blend of technological proficiency and human-centric leadership. Developing tech skills is no longer optional, it’s essential. Leaders must understand how to leverage technology to unlock new opportunities and drive institutional growth.

Equally important is the ability to recognize and nurture human potential. A great leader inspires people to go beyond their perceived limits, aligning individual aspirations with organizational goals. The future belongs to those who can balance digital fluency with empathetic leadership.”

One word that describes you best?

Positivity

One message you would like to give the readers.

“Be humble, remain accessible, reach out people to learn new tasks without ego. Stay consistent, focused, and work smartly with integrity.”

Mr.Tibrewal brings in 35+ years of rich & multifaceted experience spanning Corporate Laws, Sales, Marketing & Distribution, People Management, Admin & Infrastructure. A Company Secretary by qualification, he possesses deep-rooted understanding of business dynamics & organizational growth.

His journey with AU Bank commenced in 2009, where he played a transformative role in establishing Wheels business across emerging geographies - Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Goa. With strategic foresight, he designed go-to-market frameworks, built agile and high-performing sales teams, and nurtured a culture rooted in entrepreneurial spirit and customer-centricity.

Mr.Tibrewal has also led the empanelment of Business Correspondents (BCs), Business Outlets (BOs) and has been instrumental in scaling the Merchant Acquiring business, encompassing QR, POS, and digital transaction ecosystems. His commitment to excellence is reflected in his efforts to elevate quality standards at the Contact Center, resulting in enhanced customer experience and sustained delight.

He has been a key witness to AU Bank’s evolution from an NBFC to a Small Finance Bank, playing a critical role in driving cultural integration and shaping purpose-led, people-first Bank. His approach is anchored in a growth mindset—championing innovation, continuous learning, and adaptability to navigate change and unlock new opportunities.

Here, we dive into Mr. Tibrewal’s journey—from his early career lessons to what drives him today. Discover his thoughts on leadership, culture, and how to have a purposeful professional life.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?
The most defining phases that shaped my leadership traits were setting up of Wheels business in new geographies, where the focus was deeply entrepreneurial, rooted in understanding the aspirations of small business owners and enabling their growth. Later, as we transited into a Small Finance Bank, I was entrusted with leading critical support functions—HR, Admin, and Infrastructure. This shift wasn’t just about managing operations; it was about building the backbone of a growing institution. A shift from business execution to people strategy, culture-building, and creating scalable systems. It was a steep learning curve, that shaped my leadership style to be more holistic, inclusive, and future-focused.

How do you stay motivated each day?
Motivation is deeply linked to discipline and purpose. I start the day with a fitness routine, it is a way of centering myself, building mental resilience and staying physically sharp.

And more importantly motivation comes by staying connected—to the values, team, and goals.

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

Integrity is non-negotiable

Ownership - taking full responsibility and being accountable proactively, not waiting for change but driving it.

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?
People around me influence the most, whether it’s someone sharing a fresh perspective, someone demonstrating resilience, or challenging the status quo each brings learning and influence in its own way. These experiences bring in a fresh perspective to cater to the diversity around.

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?

I always find myself anchored by our guiding philosophy – AU Dharma. These principles are not just words; they are deeply rooted in our culture, crafted with passion, and designed to help us make thoughtful, value-driven decisions both in personal & professional life.

Each principle, when reflected upon deeply, guides us to be rational, purposeful, and delivery-focused in every task we undertake - Customer Focus – Create meaningful value & remain relentlessly committed to what truly matters. Integrity – Uphold trust & transparency in every action. Think Deeply & Act – Embrace thoughtful action; pause, reflect, & then act. Nurture Talent & Succeed Together – Grow by growing others; invest in people & achieve goals through inclusivity. Responsibly Entrepreneurial – Take initiative with accountability; strive to make things happen with a focus on outcomes. Work Hard & Look for Details – Excellence lies in going the extra mile & paying attention to the finer points. Communicate – Speak with clarity, listen with empathy, & build with understanding. Collaborate – Work in harmony & build winning teams.

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?

"Future leaders will need to be deeply adaptable and purpose driven. The pace of change, whether technological, cultural, or economic, requires a mindset that embraces learning, unlearning, and relearning”.

Words that describe you best?

Humane, Compassionate & Executor

One message you would like to give to the readers.

"Stay true to your values, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of people. In every role, every challenge, and every transition, it’s the people around you who shape your journey. Lead with empathy, act with integrity, and keep evolving—not just for success, but for significance."

With a career span of over two decades in the banking industry, Mr. Shoorveer Shekhawat brings a wealth of experience in Strategy, Business Leadership, Product Management, Marketing, across roles at top institutions like YES Bank, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank.

Known for his purpose-driven and philosophical mindset, Mr. Shekhawat has been instrumental in shaping key business areas at AU Small Finance Bank.

In this edition, we dive into Mr. Shekhawat's journey from early career lessons to what drives him today.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?
A defining realization, rather than a single moment, has been understanding the importance of 'ownership of decisions'. We often convince ourselves that our choices were pushed or influenced by external factors like our parents, family, circumstances, or mentors. The true turning point is when you accept that the decision is always yours. This taught me that success is directly proportional to the ownership of decisions. As a leader, it's not about always proving a choice right, but about evaluating, accepting, and improving the outcomes of the choices we make.

How do you stay motivated each day?
My motivation is rooted in the answer to the profound question, 'Why do you wake up each day?' I took time to reflect on this, and for me, it comes down to three core reasons:

To experience the joy of connecting with people, to live every moment fully and truly live in the moments and to give my best at work with sincerity, honesty, and responsibility as we build AU. These reasons evolve but keeping them centered allows me to stay motivated and purpose-driven every single day.

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

The values I hold closest revolve around a principle that I believe is critical for any successful organization or individual: Value cannot be created without both Purpose and Profitability. It's not either/or it's an AND.

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?

I've learned that limiting the concept of 'influence' to a single person can be restrictive. Instead of pointing to one mentor, my approach is to view the entire ecosystem around me as a continuous source of inspiration. Every individual I interact with - a colleague, a junior team member, a senior leader, even an individual I meet outside of work, presents a unique lesson. I strive to be a curator of positive qualities, consciously observing and integrating the admirable traits, skills, or mindsets I witness into my own leadership style. This practice has taught me to appreciate diverse perspectives and ensures my learning never truly stops.

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?
The quote I continually revisit is from an introduction by Tenzin Gyatso, the Dalai Lama, and Desmond Tutu: 'Every day is a new opportunity to begin again, every day is your birthday.'
It is a powerful reminder that every morning, we are given a fresh start, an invitation and the chance to apply positive change in our lives.

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?
Future leaders must embrace clarity of purpose, but equally, they must develop strategic agility that allows the ability to adapt, pivot, and respond to change without losing sight of their core values. In a world that’s constantly evolving, leaders must be both value creators and value connectors, aligning people, purpose, and performance seamlessly.

One word that describes you best?
Relationships

It is to engage, explore, understand, express & trust that keeps me evolving as a professional and as a person.


One message you would like to give to the readers.

Be present, curious and courageous. Strive to live each moment with authenticity. Express yourself freely, let go of what weighs you down and face challenges with integrity.

With a career span of over 25 years, Mr. Vaman Ramesh Kamat is a Chartered Accountant & Cost Accountant by qualification. He brings a wealth of experience in Credit Underwriting, Retail Policy, Financial Analysis, Portfolio Management, Collections, Research and Analytics.

He holds sound knowledge about prevalent economic reforms, financial markets with practical experience in managing a wide array of retail financial products.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?

One of the most pivotal experiences in my career was being part of the initial team at HDFC Bank that set up the commercial vehicle business. Coming from NBFC background to a bank run by former Citi bankers was a significant cultural shift for the entire team.

However, since we were one of the initial recruits, we got an opportunity to work closely with the existing senior leadership of the bank for setting up the business processes, policies and team structure for our division. This opportunity gave an invaluable experience to shape strategy & execution from ground up.


How do you stay motivated each day?
Starting the day with some exercise acts as my personal cup of optimism & energy. Tackling daily challenges at work with my dedicated AU team-mates keeps me going. Also, the infectious energy of “AU culture” is an automatic motivator. Coming home to my family, including two loving pets, ensures my day ends with a smile.

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

Strong mentors and leaders who supported me have enabled me to achieve something beyond what I was capable of. I value support and continuous learning and try to give back as much as possible to my team to help them grow in their professional journey.

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?

I have been fortunate to receive guidance from leaders across different organizations, each helping me shape my career. 
My teams have had a profound impact on me as I have learnt a lot from each one of them. In AU particularly, Uttam Sir & Bhaskar helped me mould into the culture of the Bank.

What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?

“Career is like a test match; every ball cannot be hit for a sixer; sometimes you need to stay on the wicket to make a big score”. This was valuable advice I received when I required it the most!

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?

Your attitude towards your task is the most valuable skill.

As Harsha Bhogle mentioned, “Skill shines, but attitude delivers – especially when life throws a bouncer at you, instead of a gentle full toss”

“काम उन्नीस चलेगा, आदमी बीस होना चाहिए”

One word that describes you best?

Persistence.

One message you would like to give to the readers.

Family exigency and health should be priority; we are here to support you and manage things in the meantime.

With a career spanning over 30+ years, Mr. Vaish brings a wealth of experience in Credit, Risk, Audit, Governance, and leadership roles. He is a self-made professional, known for his unwavering dedication, adaptability, agility, hard-work and everyday learning mindset. Since joining AU in 2015, he has played a pivotal role in building, strengthening, and streamlining various functions into a robust, future-ready, and sustainable pillars for the bank.

In this edition, we dive into Mr. Vaish’s journey into to the values and inspirations that continue to drive him every day.

His journey with AU is an inspiration for all those who believe in consistency, collaboration and commitment towards the organization’s vision & mission.


Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader?
Leaving my comfort zone and moving out of Jaipur was a turning point in my career. Working in different geographies and learning from different leaders shaped my leadership skills. Journey in AU has significantly shaped me as a leader by giving opportunity to lead different lines of defences.


How do you stay motivated each day?
By prioritizing the bank, setting clear goals, finding meaning in my tasks and maintaining a positive work environment.


What values do you hold closest in your professional life?
Integrity, Accountability, Respect and Compliance – These values help in taking judicious decisions and always doing the right thing.


Who has been your biggest influence or mentor, and why?
Each person who stood firm on truth yet led with empathy has been my influencer. Their ability to combine discipline with compassion continues to guide my approach to leadership.


What’s a book, podcast, or quote that you keep going back to?
“Quitters never win, and winners never quit.”


And a line from the movie Sully resonates deeply: “I’ve delivered a million passengers over 40 years in the air, but in the end, I’m going to be judged on 208 seconds.” For me, these reflect how decades of dedication and consistency are tested in critical moments-and that is when true professionalism shines through.


What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?
Emotional intelligence, tech savvy, digital agility, adaptability, ethical decision-making and resilience under pressure are essentials for future leaders. Equally important is the humility to learn from everyone and the foresight to anticipate change before it arrives.


One word that describes you best?
Dependable - To me, being dependable means reliability in every situation, standing firm in times of uncertainty, and earning trust through consistent actions. It is not just about delivering results; it is about being the person people can count on, always.


One message you would like to give the readers.
Success is not final, and failure is not fatal - it is the courage to continue that truly defines you. Remember that resilience and persistence are the qualities that distinguish winners from the rest.

Mr. Vivek Rathi, a Chartered Accountant, brings around 25 years of experience in banking, finance, auditing & accounting. He has held leadership roles in renowned organizations like ICICI Bank & Yes Bank and worked extensively in MSME & Mid corporate segment.

At AU Small Finance Bank, he began his journey in 2017 as National Credit Manager, Business Banking and later entrusted with responsibilities of Head of Credit – Commercial Banking. He carries deep understanding of various markets, businesses, macro and micro developments in Indian and global economies.

Here, we dive into Mr. Rathi’s journey—from his early career lessons to what drives him today. Discover his thoughts on leadership, culture, and how to have a purposeful professional life.

Can you share a defining moment in your career that shaped you as a leader

I would say every moment, experience & interaction I had in my daily personal & professional life made significant impact on my thoughts and actions. What we were yesterday, we are not today, and we will not be in future. It is important how much we learn and imbibe in our conduct and interactions. There are ups and downs in one’s personal & professional life but important is how one handles it and comes out as winner.

How do you stay motivated each day?

Stay on task, do right things & take ownership. We keep looking for motivation from someone else. To me self-motivation is biggest driver, and it comes from love and respect for family, work & organization. Have patience, ignore noise and stay focused. Good things happen albeit late but if you are doing right, people will acknowledge and appreciate

What values do you hold closest in your professional life?

Integrity, ownership & hard work. There is no alternative to these three words

Who has been your biggest influence or mentor and why?

There isn’t a single person whom I would label as my one biggest mentor. Instead, different people at different stages of life have shaped me in what I am today. I have learnt from my parents, family, seniors, colleagues & customers. Sometimes through their direct guidance and sometimes simply observing how they handle and respond in adversities.

What’s a book, podcast or quote that you keep going back to?

Quote from Shrimad Bhagwad Gita

कर्मण्येवाधिकारस्ते मा फलेषु कदाचन।  मा कर्मफलहेतुर्भूर्मा ते सङ्गोऽस्त्वकर्मणि॥

Meaning – You have a right only to perform your prescribed actions, not to the fruits of those actions. Do not let the results of your actions be your motive and do not become attached to inaction.

What skills or mindsets do you believe are essential for future leaders?

Have patience, keep learning, be accessible & connected with ground. Also in current times, technology is playing very important role in our daily lives. Adapt yourself to changes, develop new skill sets and stay relevant

Words that describe you the best?

Prudence & Compassionate

One message you would like to give to readers

Do hard work, keep learning and upgrade yourself. Another very important for young leaders – Have patience and think long term. There is no short cut to success.

With over two decades of experience in the financial sector, Mr. Yogesh Jain brings deep expertise in Capital Mobilization, Treasury Management, and Financial Institutions Group (FIG). A Chartered Accountant by profession, he is widely recognized for his strategic foresight and innovative approach to banking sphere. 

Mr. Jain has been an integral part of AU Bank for over 15 years, playing a pivotal role during its evolution from an NBFC to a leading Small Finance Bank. His journey began with raising essential capital for the organization, followed by establishing and managing the Bank’s Treasury function, laying the foundation for robust financial governance and liquidity management. 

In his current role as Chief Operating Officer, Mr. Jain leads AU Bank’s Technology, Digital Banking, Credit Cards, and Unsecured Loans verticals. He has been instrumental in shaping the institution into a tech-first, impact-driven financial brand. His key focus areas include: 

Enterprise Transformation: Leading AU’s digital transformation in close partnership with the founder to strengthen the operational backbone and accelerate the technology roadmap.

Operational Excellence: Driving tech-driven efficiencies while maintaining absolute customer-centricity at the core of all banking operations.

Innovative Growth: Overseeing the expansion of the digital unsecured portfolio and enhancing customer journeys through unified leadership across critical enablers. 

Through his leadership, Mr. Jain continues to foster a culture of innovation and agility, ensuring AU Bank remains a trusted and agile player in India's evolving financial landscape.