The BFSI sector in India is witnessing a rapid digital transformation, with marketing playing a pivotal role in shaping customer engagement and business growth. At the forefront of this evolution are visionary Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) who are leveraging creativity with digital technologies such as programmatic, AI, data analytics, automation, and omnichannel strategies to redefine customer experiences. This list highlights the top 50 CMOs driving data-driven innovation in BFSI, setting new industry benchmarks, and reimagining financial marketing. Their leadership is not only enhancing customer trust but also paving the way for a more agile, data-driven, and customer-centric future in financial services.

Ravi Santhanam (Group head, CMO, Head- D2C Business, HDFC Bank): Ravi Santhanam, spearheading the bank’s marketing efforts and driving business growth. With over two decades of experience in leadership he came across playing various roles in the telecom, banking, and energy sectors, Mr. Santhanam brings a unique blend of strategic thinking and a customer-centric approach to justify his role.

Sujit Ganguli (CMO, ICICI Bank): Sujit Ganguly is a visionary leader who has revolutionized the bank’s marketing landscape with his branding, digital marketing, and customer engagement expertise. He has successfully propelled ICICI Bank to new heights, making it one of the industry’s most recognized and admired brands.

Anoop Manohar (CMO, Axis Bank): Anoop Manohar is an accomplished marketing leader with  23 years of extensive and high-quality experience in the areas of marketing and innovation, marketing strategy, and customer and team management with a proven record of sustainable and market-beating growths. Over the course of his career, he has created and helped build new brands/businesses and operate with a strong end-to-end view of the business.

Senthil Kumar V G ( Head- Marketing & Branding, Bank of Baroda): Senthil Kumar V G is a seasoned banking professional with over 20 years of experience in the Banking and Finance sector. Throughout his career, Senthil Kumar has developed a diverse skill set, with expertise in key areas such as Retail Liabilities, Asset Finance, Branch Banking, Marketing Strategy, New Product Development, Digital Banking, and Wealth Management.

Utsav Dutt (National – Head, Bajaj Finserv):- As National Manager at Bajaj Finserv, Utsav has driven strategic innovation in mobile marketing, excelling in revenue growth and crafting effective marketing programs that resonate with diverse consumers. With a strong analytics foundation and creative approach, he has leveraged app marketing innovations to develop transparent communication strategies, boosting user acquisition and engagement for digital properties. This commitment to delivering unmatched digital experiences reflects his leadership trait of customer obsession, with expertise in marketing strategy and digital marketing.

Nipun Kaushal (CMO, Yes Bank): Nipun Kaushal, is a seasoned marketing expert with 18 years of experience across multiple industries. He brings a unique blend of creativity, strategy, and technical expertise to drive marketing success. Kaushal’s innovative approach has shaped YES BANK’s brand identity, forged deeper customer connections, and earned him recognition as one of India’s most influential marketers in the banking sector.

Ashish Nair (CMO, Head CVM & Health Tech- Kotak Life): Aashish Nair is the mastermind behind Kotak Life Insurance’s marketing success. He leverages his specialties of Brand Building, Digital Marketing,  Strategic Planning, Market Research, and Media. With a keen eye on the pulse of the customer, he crafts marketing strategies that resonate deeply, fostering strong connections with audiences across India and cementing Kotak Life Insurance’s reputation as a trusted and beloved brand.

Geetanjali Chugh Kothari (CMO, Future Generali India Life Insurance): Geetanjali Chugh Kothari, is a trailblazing marketing leader who is redefining the life insurance landscape. With her innovative approach and customer-centric mindset, she crafts marketing strategies that resonate deeply with audiences, empowering them to secure their financial futures. Her passion for delivering exceptional customer experiences and her commitment to the insurance industry have earned her a reputation as a visionary marketer and a trusted voice in her field.

Rohit Bhasin (President and CMO, Kotak Mahindra Bank): Rohit Bhasin, is a marketing maverick who is transforming the banking landscape with his bold and innovative approach. With a keen eye on customer needs and a pulse on the latest market trends, Bhasin crafts marketing strategies that are both impactful and engaging. Under his leadership, Kotak Mahindra Bank has launched several groundbreaking campaigns that have not only won accolades but also resonated deeply with customers across India.

Vishal Subharwal (CMO & Group Head – Strategy, HDFC Life): Vishal Subharhwal is the master of leading strategy, marketing, and digital initiatives. With over 20 years of experience, he’s passionate about understanding customer needs and connecting with them creatively. Under his guidance, HDFC Life has launched numerous successful campaigns, resonating with audiences across India.

Aabhinna Suresh Khare (Chief Digital & Marketing Officer, Bajaj Capital Ltd): Aabhinna Suresh Khare, spearheads marketing efforts to drive business growth and build a strong brand presence. With his expertise, he crafts innovative, customer-focused marketing strategies that resonate with customers. Under his leadership, Bajaj Capital has enhanced brand visibility, expanded its customer base, and solidified its position as a trusted financial services provider. Khare’s commitment to exceptional customer experiences and staying ahead of marketing trends has earned him recognition as a thought leader in his field, driving success and growth for Bajaj Capital.

Anita Kumari (CMO, Punjab National Bank): Anita Kumari is the CMO at Punjab National Bank, and plays a pivotal role in shaping the brand identity and resonating with customers across India.

Zameer Kochar ( CMO, Angel One): Zameer Kochar is an accomplished leader who uses his marketing expertise to create innovative strategies that help the company grow, increase its brand visibility, and build strong relationships with customers. He plays a key role in shaping Angel One’s brand identity, making it a name that customers trust and recognize.

Abonty Banerjee (Chief Operating Officer – Technology Digital & Marketing, Tata Capital):- Abonty Banerjee, is a visionary marketing leader who drives business growth through innovative strategies. With her expertise in branding, digital marketing, and customer engagement, Banerjee has been instrumental in shaping Tata Capital’s brand identity and resonating with customers across India. Her customer-centric approach and commitment to excellence have earned her recognition as a marketing expert, and she continues to play a key role in Tata Capital’s success.

Sandeep Harsh (CMO, ICICI Lombard General Insurance): Sandeep Harsh, brings over 20 years of experience and a passion for innovation to drive marketing success. He has crafted the company’s unique brand voice and vision, leveraging expertise in marketing strategy, brand management, and customer engagement to propel business growth and foster deeper customer connections.

Abhishek Gupta (CMO, Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance): A dynamic marketing leader, with a career spanning over 15 years, Abhishek has established himself as a seasoned expert in the insurance and financial services space. His passion for crafting compelling brand stories and driving business growth is evident in his impressive track record. As a forward-thinking marketer, he is dedicated to leveraging digital transformation, data-driven insights, and customer-centric strategies to propel Edelweiss Tokio Life Insurance to new heights.

Rajesh Balachandran (CMO, Muthoot FinCorp Ltd.): Rajesh Balachandran is a highly accomplished marketing leader, With a rich experience spanning over two decades, Rajesh has honed his expertise in marketing strategy, brand management, and customer engagement. His impressive track record is marked by innovative marketing initiatives that have driven business growth, enhanced brand visibility and fostered deep customer connections.

Chandramohan Mehra (Sr. President & CMO, Bajaj Allianz Life Insurance): Chandramohan Mehra, is a skilled marketing expert who creates innovative campaigns that connect with people. He understands his customers well and uses creative strategies, digital tools, and compelling stories to drive growth and establish Bajaj Allianz Life as a top life insurance brand. Mehra’s focus on customer needs and commitment to excellence has made him a respected name in marketing.

Geetanjali Sachwani (Vice President & Head of Marketing, Franklin Templeton India): Geetanjali is an accomplished marketing professional with 18 years of experience in financial services. Expertise in designing marketing strategy, visualizing digital-social media marketing road map, and conceptualizing creative, and business-intelligence-driven campaigns. Leveraging Video, Voice, and Vernacular to communicate with India and Bharat. Building the organization brand at scale in the age of digital.

Naarayan T V (CMO, IDFC First Bank): Mr. Naarayan looks for challenges in a brand, a team, or identifying segments that drive profitability. He is a content enthusiast and loves building brands through content that moves people. In a career spanning nearly 2 decades, he has managed initiatives that have been recognized and awarded multiple times across CMO Asia, DMAi, and many more.

Sandeep Walunj (Executive Director & Group CMO, Motilal Oswal Financial Services):  Sandeep Walunj is a transformative business growth leader, With a distinguished career spanning over 25 years, he brings a unique blend of marketing and product expertise, complemented by a strong edge in MarTech and Data Science. Walunj’s impressive track record encompasses a wide range of B2B2C experiences across BFSI, FMCG, and Retail sectors, with a geographic footprint that includes India, the Middle East, and North Africa.

Darshana Shah (CMO, Aditya Birla Capital): Darshana Shah is a seasoned marketing leader leading a financial services company in India. With over 25 years of experience across industries, she drives business growth, innovation, and excellence. A Harvard Business School alum, she leverages advanced research and digital tools to create customer-centric strategies, delivering revenue growth and ROI on marketing spends.

Arvind Naaz (CMO, Reliance General Insurance): Arvind Naaz is a seasoned marketing professional, With a rich experience spanning over two decades, Naaz has developed a deep understanding of the insurance industry and has played a pivotal role in shaping Reliance General Insurance’s brand identity. His expertise in marketing strategy, brand management, and customer engagement has enabled the company to strengthen its market presence, drive business growth, and build lasting relationships with customers. Under his leadership, Reliance General Insurance continues to innovate and push boundaries in the insurance marketing space.

Iti Mehrotra (CMO, Kotak Securities): Iti Mehrotra brings 15 years of expertise in digital marketing and acquisitions. With a proactive approach and robust business acumen, she leverages digital interventions to drive process re-engineering and enhance customer experiences. Having led marketing verticals at KSL, 5paisa, IIFL, and ICICI Bank, Iti is a seasoned marketer, strategist, and mentor with a keen understanding of user behavior and consumer actions.

Mohit Totlani (SVP- Brand & Channel Marketing, UTI mutual fund):- Mohit Totlani is a seasoned marketing leader, serving as Senior Vice President (SVP) – Marketing at UTI Mutual Funds. With a wealth of experience in the financial services sector, he spearheads the development and execution of innovative marketing strategies, driving brand growth and customer engagement for UTI Mutual Funds.

Rathin Lahiri (Head Marketing & CSR, SBI General Insurance): Rathin Lahiri  is a seasoned marketing leader with a proven track record of creating value for top Indian and global brands. With experience spanning consumer goods, financial services, and internet businesses, he has led teams at renowned companies like Hindustan Unilever, Kotak, and Microsoft. A multiple award-winning professional, he is also a startup investor, keynote speaker, and mentor who continues to learn and grow.

Abhinav Iyer (Senior General Manager- Marketing & Strategy, Muthoot Finance): Abhivan lyer is leading innovative marketing campaigns and business strategies that drive real results. By partnering with India’s top creative minds and focusing on customer needs, they have not only met but exceeded the business targets. He also plays a key role in identifying and developing top talent, and his customer-centric approach has earned him prestigious industry awards.

Girish J Kalra (CMO, Tata AIA Life Insurance): As a seasoned marketing professional, he brings a versatile experience in traditional and digital marketing, corporate communication, and CSR. With a strong background in MarTech, including pioneering initiatives in Generative AI, he has led successful stints in both established firms and startups. His diverse industry exposure spans consumer goods, mutual funds, insurance, and advertising agencies, with significant expertise in both B2B and B2C marketing. His top skills include marketing strategy, brand management, corporate communications, and digital marketing.

Kavita Jagtiani (CMO, L&T Finance): With an impressive 24 years of experience under her belt, Kavita is a seasoned brand builder and business professional. Her diverse career spans various industries, including financial services, luxury goods, and consumer products. Kavita’s expertise lies in strategic planning, innovation, and consumer insights, with a proven track record of creating successful brands and campaigns that resonate with audiences.

Manav Verma (CMO, IIFL Finance): Manav Verma is a visionary leader, With 22 years of experience across various industries, Manav is a master strategist who drives leading brands forward. Manav’s passion lies in creating exceptional customer experiences. He leverages data-driven insights and cutting-edge technologies to unlock new opportunities. His leadership style thrives in collaborative environments, where he works with cross-functional teams to achieve ambitious growth goals through continuous innovation. With his expertise and vision, Manav continues to drive business success at IIFL Finance.

Prashant Sarangi (Vice President & Head – Marketing & Corporate Communications, SBI mutual fund): Prashant Sarangi is a seasoned professional With a strong background in the financial industry, Prashant has established himself as a knowledgeable expert in his field.

Sourabh Lohtia (Chief Marketing & Communication Officer and Head Digital Business, PNB MetLife India Insurance Co. Ltd): Sourabh Lohtia is a seasoned marketing expert and digital innovator With a strong track record of driving business growth through creative marketing strategies and digital transformation, Sourabh is a key leader in the insurance industry. His expertise spans marketing, communications, and digital innovation, making him a sought-after expert in his field.

Anand Dubey (Head – Marketing, Customer Service, Principal Nodal Officer, Mahindra Finance): Anand is a seasoned marketing expert with 25+ years of experience in building and nurturing iconic brands. He’s helped numerous MNCs and Indian companies across banking, consumer durables, autos, and media boost their brand image and growth. With a versatile marketing skill set, Anand excels in blending traditional and digital strategies to engage modern consumers. A sought-after speaker and thought leader, Anand has contributed to various marketing forums and holds prestigious certifications from ISB, INSEAD, and IPM.

Ashish Mishra (CMO, ACKO Insurance):-  Ashish Mishra is a results-driven marketing leader with 20+ years of experience in brand building and marketing. He specializes in crafting brand and product marketing strategies that drive growth while focusing on long-term brand development. His expertise includes integrated marketing, brand management, and marketing strategy, with a leadership style that fosters high-performing teams and cultures.

Royston Netto (Head of Marketing, Bajaj Finserv AMC): With over 17 years of experience in sales, advertising, and marketing, Royston has worked on some of India’s biggest brands across industries such as FMCG, Financial Services, Durables, and Media. Over the years, he has honed expertise in brand management, content marketing, communications, and sales. Leading teams to drive not just impactful creative campaigns but also initiatives that deliver measurable success and profitability for brands, He has established a strong track record of excellence in the industry.

Vinu Nair (CMO, Standard Chartered Bank ): Vinu Nair, is a highly accomplished marketing leader with a proven track record of driving business growth and brand transformation. With his expertise in digital marketing, brand management, and customer engagement. He has successfully spearheaded Standard Chartered Bank’s marketing strategies, enhancing the bank’s brand presence and customer connections across diverse markets.

Samir Sethi (Head of Brand Marketing, PolicyBazaar):- Samir Sethi is a seasoned marketing expert who heads the marketing division at PolicyBazaar, one of India’s leading insurance comparison websites. With his expertise in digital marketing and brand management, Samir has been instrumental in driving PolicyBazaar’s growth and establishing it as a household name. His innovative approach to marketing has not only boosted the company’s online presence but also helped it connect with millions of customers across the country.

Girish Budhiraja (Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, SBI Card):–  Girish Budhiraja a seasoned banking professional who leads the sales and marketing efforts at SBI Card, one of India’s largest credit card issuers. With his expertise in driving business growth and customer acquisition, Girish has played a pivotal role in shaping SBI Card’s market presence and expanding its customer base. His strategic vision and leadership have been instrumental in propelling SBI Card to new heights.

Bani Saluja (CMO, American Express):- Bani is a seasoned Payments Business leader with 18+ years of experience in building products, transforming businesses, and driving revenue growth. With a proven track record at American Express, she has excelled in diverse roles across sales, marketing, partnerships, and business transformation. A globally recognized leader, she is a three-time President’s Award winner and has been named Best Women in Financial Sales by Zars Media, UK. She is a passionate advocate for women in sales and diversity, driving initiatives across APAC markets.

Punit Dharamsi (SVP – Marketing & Investor Education, AMFI):- Punit is a seasoned marketing professional with over 20 years of experience in brand, product, digital, social media, and content marketing, as well as corporate communications. With a proven track record in managing large-budget, multi-media campaigns, he excels in designing and executing marketing and brand communication strategies. His expertise also extends to developing websites and mobile apps, with a deep understanding of rural India and a portfolio of award-winning marketing campaigns.

Puneeth Bekal (EVP & CMO, HDFC Securities):- Puneeth is a seasoned marketing leader with 17+ years of experience across FMCG, Consumer Durables, Retail, Real Estate, and Fintech. He has led numerous brand transformations, orchestrated award-winning campaigns, and built a powerful sponsorship ecosystem. A recipient of multiple awards, he has also authored the Business World Marketing White Book and been recognized as one of Business World’s Top 40 Under 40. He is a trained musician, avid reader, yoga practitioner, and climate crusader.

Ashish Morone (EVP & Head – Brand, Marketing Communications & Retail Marketing, HDFC Bank):- Ashish is a seasoned marketing professional with 25 years of experience in strategic planning, brand management, and communications. He has a proven track record of driving business growth, launching successful products, and developing effective marketing strategies. His expertise includes team management, budget management, and innovation. He has worked on several high-impact projects, including the Edelweiss Tokio Life brand positioning campaign and the re-development of the Edelweiss Group brand architecture.

Ruchika Malhan Varma (CMO, Customer & Impact Officer, Future Generali Insurance):- Ruchika Malhan is a seasoned marketing professional with over 20 years of experience across global and local brands, spanning various industries including BFSI, content, media, hospitality, and consumer goods. With expertise in launching and building brands, team management, and developing high-ROI marketing strategies, she has worked extensively in India, South East Asia, Greater China, and North Asia. Her specialties include brand management, integrated marketing, digital marketing, social media, and data analytics.

Vikash Sharma (VP Marketing, SBI Life):- Vikash Sharma is a seasoned advertising and marketing professional driven by a passion to craft and communicate innovative ideas that foster deep consumer affection for brands. With expertise in brand management, strategic partnerships, market research, and internal communication, he excels at developing effective marketing strategies that resonate with audiences.

Rahul Dighe (Associate VP Marketing, Nippon India Mutual Fund):– Rahul is a seasoned marketing professional with 15+ years of experience in strategy, brand building, communications, digital marketing, and SEO. He has worked with leading business houses in retail, oil & gas, and BFSI. With expertise in marketing strategy, advertising, and brand building, he drives business growth, market share, and equity growth. He also shares his experience through guest lectures and judging presentations at various colleges, fostering knowledge sharing and mutual learning.

Subhankar Sengupta (CMO & Head Alternate Channels, India First Life Insurance): Subhankar Sengupta is a highly accomplished marketing leader With a rich experience spanning over two decades. Subhankar has developed a deep understanding of the insurance industry and has played a pivotal role in shaping IndiaFirst’s brand identity. His expertise in marketing strategy, brand management, and customer engagement has enabled the company to strengthen its market presence and drive business growth.

Boni Noronha (SVP- Head Marketing, PR & Digital, Axis MF):- Boni Noronha is a seasoned leader with 24+ years of experience driving business growth through strategic expertise in digital transformation, marketing, ecommerce, and technology. He has successfully set up and scaled digital business models, led cross-functional teams, and delivered profitable growth in various industries, including BFSI, telecom, and FMCG.

Nayan Kadam (Chief Manager -Marketing & Corporate Communications, Canara Robeco Mutual Funds):- Nayan Kadam is a marketing and communications expert, he  leverages his expertise to drive brand growth, stakeholder engagement, and business development through strategic marketing initiatives. With a strong focus on brand building and customer engagement, Nayan plays a key role in shaping the company’s marketing and communications strategy, driving growth and success in the competitive mutual funds industry.

Manish Rathi (VP & Head Digital Growth Marketing, DSP Mutual Funds):- Manish, brings 15 years of experience in growing businesses, servicing clients, and forging strategic alliances across mutual funds, payments, banking, and e-commerce. Currently, he heads digital business growth at DSP Mutual Fund, focusing on acquiring new investors, generating business from existing ones, and enhancing customer engagement. With a strong background in digital alliances and strategic partnerships, Manish, is known for his effective persuasion, communication, and organizational skills, with a unique ability to wear multiple hats to drive business growth.

Sapna Desai (CMO, ManipalCigna Health Insurance Company Ltd):- With an extensive experience in Marketing and Brand Building, Sapna Desai, is the force behind ManipalCigna Health Insurance’s marketing, creative and consumer experience strategy. She is responsible for developing and implementing the overall Marketing and Brand Strategy to drive the growth agenda for the organization. She leads the Consumer Insights, Online Sales, Brand Strategy and Media, Corporate Communication, Channel, and Digital Marketing functions.

In conclusion, the banking and finance industry is undergoing a profound transformation, and Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) and emerging leaders are playing a pivotal role in shaping its future. The top 50 CMOs and emerging leaders featured in this article are trailblazers who are harnessing the power of digital transformation, fintech, and data-driven insights to create customer-centric experiences, drive business growth, and stay ahead of the curve.

As we look to the future, it’s clear that these visionary leaders will continue to drive innovation and excellence in BFSI marketing. Their commitment to customer-centricity, digital transformation, and innovation will inspire a new generation of marketers and leaders.

-This article is the result of thorough research conducted by the IST Research & Editorial team, with valuable support from technology partners like MiQ and Varun Mohan- Revenue and Growth Head.”

Disclaimer
The selection process involves rigorous evaluation but is based on subjective criteria, which may lead to variations. Parameters include industry influence, reputation, experience, contributions, education, accolades, and followership. While comprehensive, assessments may not capture every aspect of a candidate’s profile. Selection does not imply endorsement or guaranteeing future performance. Feedback is welcomed for improvement.