With a distinguished career spanning over four and a half decades, a seasoned Chartered Accountant has successfully navigated the complexities of corporate finance, taxation, procurement, and strategic leadership. From pivotal roles at industry giants like Tata and Alstom to steering a premier five-star hospitality establishment, his professional journey reflects versatility and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
A Multifaceted Career in Finance and Leadership
A commerce graduate and a Fellow Member of the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India, he has accumulated vast experience across diverse sectors. His corporate tenure included key financial and administrative responsibilities, preparing him for broader leadership challenges. With nearly three decades in manufacturing, he later transitioned into hospitality, culminating in his tenure as President & CEO of a leading luxury property.
His professional contributions extend beyond corporate roles. He served as the Financial Advisor to the Bangalore Chamber of Commerce & Industry (BCIC), gaining invaluable insights into industry advocacy and governmental engagement. As a management consultant, leadership coach, and mentor to MSMEs, his influence continues to shape industry practices. Additionally, he is an accomplished author with four books, three of which are published by ICAI, and has been recognized by the Institute for his contributions to the Internal Audit Committee. His thought leadership is further evident through his role in CII’s ASCON Finance & Taxation and Sustainability Standards Committee, along with authorship of a White Paper on BEPS (Base Erosion and Profit Shifting) published by CII.
Strengthening the Cutting Tool Industry through ICTMA
His expertise in finance and industry affairs naturally led him to take on the role of Executive Secretary at the Indian Cutting Tool Manufacturers’ Association (ICTMA). His prior stint at BCIC provided valuable exposure to the workings of industry chambers and governmental interactions, making the transition to ICTMA a seamless one. Since assuming leadership at ICTMA, he has implemented several initiatives aimed at enhancing corporate governance, financial efficiency, and industry representation.
His tenure has seen significant progress in streamlining ICTMA’s operations, including:
- Improving financial governance through better compliance mechanisms, MIS implementation, and efficient fund management.
- Enhancing member relations and expanding ICTMA’s reach by increasing membership and engagement.
- Strengthening government advocacy, ensuring the industry’s concerns—particularly regarding raw materials like HSS steel and tungsten carbide—are addressed.
- Organizing impactful conferences and member meets, securing sponsorships, and facilitating knowledge-sharing platforms.
Challenges and the Road Ahead for ICTMA
The cutting tool industry faces formidable challenges, particularly in raw material procurement, as it remains heavily reliant on China. With China imposing export restrictions, the industry is under increasing pressure to secure alternative sources and advocate for domestic production. Through persistent lobbying, ICTMA has succeeded in getting the government to recognize the industry’s needs, including securing a sub-sector status and pushing for better access to critical minerals.
To further strengthen the industry, ICTMA is focusing on:
- Unifying a fragmented sector by consolidating local associations and increasing membership.
- Navigating material shortages and advocating for domestic resource development.
- Unlocking market potential by helping members explore new opportunities.
Addressing skilled manpower shortages through collaborations with technical institutes and targeted training programs.
A Vision for the Future
With a steadfast commitment to financial discipline, industry advocacy, and skill development, ICTMA is poised to play a transformative role in the cutting tool sector. Under his strategic leadership, the association is not only responding to present challenges but also laying the groundwork for a more self-reliant and competitive industry.
His journey—from corporate boardrooms to industry advocacy—exemplifies the power of financial expertise in driving systemic change. As ICTMA continues to champion the interests of the cutting tool industry, his leadership remains instrumental in shaping a resilient and thriving ecosystem.