Bandhan Bank's Founder CS Ghosh Announces Retirement After 9 Years as CEO

Bandhan Bank, a prominent private sector lender, announced a significant leadership change with its founder, managing director (MD), and chief executive officer (CEO) Chandra Shekhar Ghosh set to step down after his current tenure ends on July 9, 2024. This decision marks the culmination of nearly a decade of Ghosh's leadership, during which he guided the bank through its formative years and several significant milestones.

Ghosh's departure follows three consecutive tenures as MD and CEO, a period during which he played a pivotal role in steering the bank through various challenges and achievements. In a letter to the board, Ghosh expressed his intention to retire from his roles at Bandhan Bank and assume a larger strategic position within the Bandhan group. "After leading the bank for almost a decade, including three consecutive tenures 9 years as MD & CEO, I feel that the time has now come for me to assume a larger strategic role at Bandhan group level," Ghosh stated. He also extended his gratitude towards the board for their support over the years.

Regulatory Compliance and Leadership Tenure

According to Reserve Bank of India (RBI) guidelines, the tenure of an MD and CEO at private banks is capped at 15 years. Promoters or major shareholders are limited to holding these positions for no more than 12 years, with a possible three-year extension under extraordinary circumstances. Ghosh's decision aligns with these regulatory requirements.

Bandhan Bank's Journey

Bandhan Bank has experienced significant growth since its inception. The RBI granted in-principle approval to Bandhan Bank and IDFC Ltd on April 2, 2014, to establish a universal bank. Officially launched on August 23, 2015, Bandhan Bank started with 501 branches and 50 ATMs across 24 states, becoming the first microfinance institution from the Eastern region to transition into a universal bank. The bank's successful listing on the bourses in 2018 and its acquisition of Gruh Finance in 2019 to offer more affordable banking solutions to home buyers are notable achievements under Ghosh's leadership.

Overcoming Challenges

Ghosh's tenure was not without its difficulties. The bank navigated through several national economic changes and natural disasters, including demonetisation in 2016, the introduction of GST in 2017, and the impacts of cyclones Fani in 2019 and Amphan in 2020. Additionally, socio-political challenges in key regions and the global pandemic posed significant hurdles. Despite these challenges, Bandhan Bank has shown remarkable resilience and growth. As of March 31, 2024, the bank reported deposits of Rs 1.35 lakh crore and advances of Rs 1.28 lakh crore, highlighting impressive year-on-year growth.

A Legacy of Leadership

The announcement of Ghosh's retirement comes after Uday Kotak, founder MD and CEO of Kotak Mahindra Bank, stepped down from his post on September 1 last year after nearly two decades at the helm. Ghosh's departure signifies a pivotal moment for Bandhan Bank as it prepares to transition to new leadership while continuing to build on the solid foundation laid during his tenure.

As Bandhan Bank looks towards the future, it remains committed to providing affordable banking solutions and contributing positively to India's banking sector under new leadership.