About Me
I am Leadership Developer by passion and a recognised authority on Kautilya’s Arthashastra, the seminal ancient Indian manuscript on governance, economic policy, and military strategy. Currently serving as the Program Director at the School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL), where I design and deliver impactful leadership programs for public servants, work on curating the Global Leadership Conclave, and spearhead capacity building initiatives in collaboration with the
Government. With a focus on infrastructure development for the Institute, donor relations, and the flagship “Pinnacle Voices” series, I am committed to fostering ethical governance and transformative leadership.
My career trajectory is marked by a wealth of experience across various sectors, including Founder CEO and Director of Chanakya Aanvikshiki Pvt Ltd, Director of Chanakya Institute of Public Leadership and as the Senior Executive Officer for Strategic and Outreach at the Partha Ghosh Academy of Leadership, Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kharagpur. These roles have allowed me to impart leadership wisdom to a broad spectrum of professionals from the corporate world, academia, politics, and public service.
Academically, I hold a Master’s degree in Leadership Science from the Chanakya
International Institute of Leadership Studies at the University of Mumbai, complemented by a Post Graduate Certificate in Kautilya Arthashastra from the Chanakya Institute of Public Leadership at the University of Mumbai.
My scholarly pursuits in Kautilya’s Arthashastra have not only deepened my understanding of ancient Indian political economy but also enabled me to share this knowledge through lectures and courses at prestigious institutions such as the College of Defence Management, Secunderabad; Indian Institute of Public Leadership, Mumbai; MIT School of Government,
Pune; and the University of Mumbai.
In the corporate realm, I have an eight-year tenure as an Associate Vice President at HSBC and Standard Chartered, bolstered by certifications as a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) and a Level 2 Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) candidate from the USA.
My contributions to the field have been acknowledged with an excellence award and an International Fellowship in Election Campaign Management for the 2016 USA Presidential Election from the University of Akron, USA, along with a certificate in Socio-Political Leadership from Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini, Mumbai.
As a dynamic, committed, and innovative Leadership Developer, my mission is to empower individuals and organisations to realise their full potential and achieve their objectives.
For nearly a decade, since 2014, I have dedicated myself to studying and working with these profound subjects, allowing me to offer deep insights and guidance to individuals and organizations seeking to embrace the wisdom of ancient Indian texts.
I have a rich and diverse experience of working in different sectors and roles. I have been the Founding CEO - Director Chanakya Aanvikshiki Pvt Ltd and Director at Chanakya Institute of Public Leadership, where I trained organisations and leaders from diverse fields such as corporate, educational, political, and public service.
I have done my Masters in Leadership Science from Chanakya International Institute of Leadership Studies, University of Mumbai and Post Graduate Certificate Program in Kautilya Arthashastra from Chanakya Institute of Public Leadership, University of Mumbai.
I have done extensive research on “Kautilya’s Arthashastra,” an ancient Indian treatise on statecraft & economics and explored the principles of ancient Indian governance and their relevance in the modern world. I have lectured and conducted courses at renowned educational institutions such as the College of Defence Management (CDM), Secunderabad; Indian Institute of Public Leadership (IIDL); Mumbai; MIT School of Government (MIT-SOG), Pune; University of Mumbai (MU) and others.
I have also worked as an Associate Vice President in HSBC and Standard Chartered Bank for eight years. I am a Certified Financial Planner (CFP), a candidate for Level 2 Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) - USA.
I have received recognition for my contributions, including an excellence award and an International Fellowship in Election Campaign Management for the ‘2016 US Presidential Election’ from the University of Akron (USA) & also completed a certificate course in “Socio-Political Leadership” from Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini, Mumbai.
I am a versatile, dedicated, and innovative Leadership Developer who can help individuals and organisations achieve their goals.
जीवनं यात्रा एवेति (Jīvanaṁ yātrā eveti)
This succinct phrase captures the essence of the concept that life is akin to a journey, where each individual traverses through various experiences, challenges, and growth, much like a traveler embarks on a voyage with unknown destinations and encounters along the way.
Education
University of Mumbai
Mumbai India
A 2 year Masters in Leadership Science course. The course aims at developing Leaders who are groomed to take logical and creative decisions, who have a vision, Passion and a core Philosophy, led by high standards of moral and ethics. This is a first of its kind course to teach Leadership as a scientific subject & process. This course offers to teach modern & ancient methods of Leadership documented 2500 years ago.
The University of Akron
Ohio, United States of America
The ICF program was a hands-on learning experience in the science of political electioneering where selected participants were given a unique opportunity to travel to the United States and witness the spectacular interplay of political art and the science of electioneering during the 2016 United States Presidential lections.
ICF participants spend time during their stay learning about the USA campaign process through meetings and lectures, but most of their time is spent visiting, observing, and assisting on a major party’s campaign within Ohio. Ohio is perceived as a battleground state in the USA presidential election and, thus offered a unique perspective to understand and learn about USA campaigns and elections.
University of Mumbai
Mumbai India
A unique six-month residential program designed to cultivate aspiring thinkers and leaders. This program was under the Department of Philosophy and was free of charge, upholding the traditional Guru-Shishya parampara (teacher-student tradition). The program aimed to blend ancient wisdom by teaching the whole ancient Indian text of Kautilya Arthashastra which consist of 6000 sutras with modern-day politics and management techniques, providing a comprehensive learning experience for future leaders.
Rambhau Mhalgi Prabodhini
Thane India
Certificate Course in Socio-Political Leadership focused on honing and harnessing leadership skills through its academically proven and action-oriented modules. Netritva Sadhana was born out of an acute need for a formal short-term training course or a programme for young professionals and individuals considering either a full-fledged career, active volunteering or association with some social or political organization. Conducted as a 5-day residential course, Netritva Sadhana systematically and structurally introduces youngsters to the world of social work or activism or politics. The training is delivered by social workers, activists, political leaders, acclaimed bureaucrats, and intellectuals, and is coupled with informal interactions and field visits.
Massey University
Auckland, New Zealand
The Postgraduate Certificate in Business with a focus on Marketing at Massey University in Auckland, New Zealand, is a program designed for individuals who are interested in gaining advanced knowledge and skills in the field of business and marketing. The program offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals. It is suitable for graduates who wish to study selected courses in business.
Welcomgroup Graduate School of Hotel Administration
Manipal, India
This Bachelor’s program by Welcomgroup which is a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education in Manipal, India, is a comprehensive four-year undergraduate program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for employability and leadership roles in hospitality and restaurant operations, management, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum covers various aspects of hotel management, including Food Production, Food & Beverage Service, Front Office, Accommodation Operations, and Management Studies. Graduates of the BHM program can pursue careers in hotels and restaurants, tourism and allied services, retail, aviation, customer care and logistic services, and many other service-based commercial ventures, including online services and products.
Education
Masters in Leadership Science | Jun 2016 - Jun 2018
A 2 year Masters in Leadership Science course. The course aims at developing Leaders who are groomed to take logical and creative decisions, who have a vision, Passion and a core Philosophy, led by high standards of moral and ethics. This is a first of its kind course to teach Leadership as a scientific subject & process. This course offers to teach modern & ancient methods of Leadership documented 2500 years ago.
International Election Campaign Fellowship (ICF) | Sep 2016 - Nov 2016
The ICF program was a hands-on learning experience in the science of political electioneering where selected participants were given a unique opportunity to travel to the United States and witness the spectacular interplay of political art and the science of electioneering during the 2016 United States Presidential Elections. ICF participants spend time during their stay learning about the USA campaign process through meetings and lectures, but most of their time is spent visiting, observing, and assisting on a major party's campaign within Ohio. Ohio is perceived as a battleground state in the USA presidential election and, thus offered a unique perspective to understand and learn about USA campaigns and elections.
Post Graduate Certificate in Kautilya Arthashastra | Jan 2014 - Jul 2014
A unique six-month residential program designed to cultivate aspiring thinkers and leaders. This program was under the Department of Philosophy and was free of charge, upholding the traditional Guru-Shishya parampara (teacher-student tradition). The program aimed to blend ancient wisdom by teaching the whole ancient Indian text of Kautilya Arthashastra which consist of 6000 sutras with modern-day politics and management techniques, providing a comprehensive learning experience for future leaders.
Certificate Course in Socio Political Leadership | Jul 2013 - Jul 2013
Certificate Course in Socio-Political Leadership focused on honing and harnessing leadership skills through its academically proven and action-oriented modules. Netritva Sadhana was born out of an acute need for a formal short-term training course or a programme for young professionals and individuals considering either a full-fledged career, active volunteering or association with some social or political organization. Conducted as a 5-day residential course, Netritva Sadhana systematically and structurally introduces youngsters to the world of social work or activism or politics. The training is delivered by social workers, activists, political leaders, acclaimed bureaucrats, and intellectuals, and is coupled with informal interactions and field visits
Post Graduate Certificate in Business (Marketing) | Nov 2007 - Oct 2008
The Postgraduate Certificate in Business with a focus on Marketing at Massey University in Auckland, New Zealand, is a program designed for individuals who are interested in gaining advanced knowledge and skills in the field of business and marketing. The program offers flexibility, allowing students to tailor their studies to their specific interests and career goals. It is suitable for graduates who wish to study selected courses in business.
Bachelor in Hotel Management | Jun 2001 - Jun 2005
This Bachelor’s program by Welcomgroup which is a constituent unit of Manipal Academy of Higher Education in Manipal, India, is a comprehensive four-year undergraduate program aims to provide students with a strong foundation in knowledge, skills, and attitudes required for employability and leadership roles in hospitality and restaurant operations, management, and entrepreneurship. The curriculum covers various aspects of hotel management, including Food Production, Food & Beverage Service, Front Office, Accommodation Operations, and Management Studies. Graduates of the BHM program can pursue careers in hotels and restaurants, tourism and allied services, retail, aviation, customer care and logistic services, and many other service-based commercial ventures, including online services and products.
Experience in Leadership Development
School of Ultimate Leadership (SOUL) | Jan 2025 – Present
Program Director
- Develop and implement both short-term and long-term leadership programs for public servants across ministries and departments.
- Oversee the construction and development of SOUL’s infrastructure, ensuring alignment with the institution’s vision.
- Curate and manage the Global Leadership Conclave, engaging thought leaders from various domains.
- Oversee financial planning, donor relations, and resource mobilization for the School’s initiatives.
- Design and execute leadership talks under the “Pinnacle Voices” platform to promote thought leadership.
- Collaborate with the Capacity Building Commission under Mission Karmayogi and NGOs like Praja to enhance leadership capacity in Urban Local Bodies.
- Ensure strategic partnerships with governmental and non-governmental organizations to drive SOUL’s mission.
Indian Institute of Technology Kharagpur | Sep 2023 - DEC 2024
Partha Ghosh Academy of Leadership
SEO - Senior Executive Officer
- Design and implement leadership development programs tailored for participants from corporate, public, and academic sectors. Facilitate workshops, seminars, and training sessions to enhance leadership skills.
- Build and maintain relationships with various stakeholders, including Board of Advisors, students, corporates, and public sector entities. Act as a liaison to ensure effective communication and collaboration.
- Oversee and manage career development processes within organizations. Provide guidance and support to individuals in their professional growth and leadership journey.
- Handle large-scale projects involving multiple organizations. Plan, execute, and monitor project progress to ensure successful outcomes.
- Manage and lead a team of professionals. Foster a collaborative environment and ensure team members are aligned with the program’s objectives.
- Ensure all activities comply with institutional policies and industry best practices. Stay updated with the latest trends in leadership training and development.
Chanakya Aanvikshiki Pvt Ltd | Sep 2016 - Aug 2023
Founder CEO & Director
- Achieved over ₹ 2.5 Crore in revenue through bootstrapping, impacting 1500+ participants, coaching 45 leaders, consulting 14 companies, and reaching 200,000+ people online and offline.
- As a founder, handled company setup, administrative office establishment, staff recruitment, and partnered with domain-specific consultants.
- Developed and delivered 40+ courses on chanakya’s teachings, catering to corporates, educational institutes, and government organizations.
- Provided leadership consulting for family businesses, blending Indian and Western principles, with engagements ranging from 12 to 24 months.
- Coached individual and group leaders, managed campaigns, analyzed electoral patterns, and executed policy and strategy implementation.
Chanakya Institute of Public Leadership | Jul 2016 - Jun 2023
Director
- The Chanakya Institute of Public Leadership (CIPL) is a training school for future leaders inspired by the ancient Indian wisdom.
- CIPL aims to institutionalise the ancient Indian Spiritual knowledge with an emphasis on its practical application in society to create a model society that can sustain for generations to come.
- The Institute offered a unique six-month residential program designed to cultivate aspiring thinkers and leaders. This program was under the Department of Philosophy and was free of charge, upholding the traditional Guru-Shishya parampara (teacherstudent tradition). The program aimed to blend ancient wisdom by teaching the whole ancient Indian text of Kautilya Arthashastra which consist of 6000 sutras with modernday politics and management techniques, providing a comprehensive learning experience for future leaders.
Chanakya Mitra Mantrana Pvt Ltd | Jul 2014 - Aug 2015
Chief Operating Officer (Advisor and Consultant)
- Strategic level decisions making along with the Board of Directors in the area of Market Study andBusiness Model creation.
- Get the company set up including Company Registration, Trademark, Bank Accounts, etc
- Set up the administrative office including Website; Email ids, Crating Company profile.
- Analysing the client’s company / profile and creating an in – depth report on the present functioning systems and procedures.
- Advise a plan to the client on changes and upgrades required in Financial Systems and Human Resource Management.
- Hand holding them from the conception to execution of the systems.
- Acquired new clients through references and Business Development activities.
Experience in Financial Services
Standard Chartered Bank | Sep 2015 - Aug 2016
Priority Relationship Manager
- As a Priority Relationship Manager, I proactively review and address Premier clients’ needs, enhancing relationships through additional funds and diverse financial products.
- I focus on deepening product penetration by identifying clients for tailored offerings, ensuring all engagements involve comprehensive risk profiling and financial planning.
- I organise events for client bonding, maintain strict adherence to KYC/AML norms, and provide thorough information on our services, ensuring the highest service standards.
HSBC | Apr 2011 - Jun 2013
Associate Vice President
- As a Associate Vice President, I actively assess and meet the financial needs of HSBC Bank’s premier clients, fostering stronger relationships through personalised service and diverse product offerings.
- I focus on expanding product penetration among my client base, identifying opportunities for tailored financial solutions that cater to their evolving needs.
- I ensure all client interactions are compliant with KYC/AML standards, organise events for client engagement, and provide comprehensive product information to maintain
high service quality.
Wealth Manager | Sep 2010 - Apr 2011
Ing Vysya Bank is now Kotak Mahindra Bank
- I specialize in client acquisition and nurturing client relationships, ensuring their financial plans are crafted and implemented effectively.
- By keeping a close eye on market trends, I make sure clients’ financial strategies are current and adjust them as needed.
- I provide clients with clear financial reports, explore new investment opportunities, and offer detailed explanations of their financial plans and options
SAFEinvest | Aug 2008 - Oct 2009
Manager - HNI and NRI Desk
- Established the NRI desk, providing financial planning and wealth management to deepen relationships with HNI customers.
- Conducted regular portfolio reviews and advised on investments in Mutual Funds and Portfolio Management Services.
- Organised large promotional events for new products and tailored services to meet the unique needs of HNI clients.
Experience in Hospitality
Hyatt Regency Mumbai | Jun 2005 - Jul 2006
Sales Coordinator - MICE Sales
- Managed the MICE market segment as a sales coordinator and oversaw the corporate segment of South Mumbai for the hotel.
- Acted as the central liaison for convention groups, coordinating with all hotel departments to ensure seamless service.
- Handled rate negotiations, prepared quotations, and drafted contracts for hotel sales and services.
Licenses & Certifications
Certified Independent Director
Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) Level 2 Candidate
Certified Financial Planner (CFP)
Research papers presented
Consulate General of India, New York, USA | Jun 2018
Indian Council for Philosophical Research (ICPR) | Oct 2017
What people have to say:
Vasundhara Talware
Lalchand Yadav
Gaurang Bhatt
Jayesh Solanki
Ravi Pokharna
Rasika Madge
Antriksh Shah
Shrikantha H S
Amit Parmar
Shiv Bhaskar
Ina Patel
Nirav Somaiya
Mohnish Bose
Venkat S
Rishi Raj
Aditya Bharadwaj
Kinnari (Kinnari Toliya) Modi
Yogesh Jain
Disha Selarka
