In recent times, the role of a Chief Financial Officer (CFO) in an organization has undergone vast and transformative changes. A CFO is no longer just a financial authority but a strategic partner to the Chief Executive Officer (CEO), playing a critical role in shaping the company’s vision, driving business growth, and ensuring financial sustainability. Beyond their traditional responsibilities of managing financial operations, CFOs are now deeply involved in decision-making processes that impact the organization’s long-term success. Their expertise is crucial in areas such as corporate strategy, investment planning, risk assessment, and regulatory compliance.
In today’s business landscape, CFOs must possess a blend of financial acumen, technological proficiency, and strategic foresight. Besides making responsible investment decisions, they are expected to remain updated with the latest financial technologies, data analytics, and automation tools that can enhance operational efficiency. As digital transformation accelerates, CFOs are adopting cutting-edge financial technologies, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and predictive analytics to optimize financial performance and streamline business processes.
India’s corporate ecosystem is evolving rapidly, driven by globalization, innovation, and increasing investor confidence. Indian companies are gearing up for global competition, and their outlook is becoming more futuristic. This shift has placed CFOs at the center of business transformation, requiring them to navigate complex economic environments, geopolitical risks, and financial uncertainties while ensuring business growth and stability. Their ability to manage working capital, optimize cost structures, and create sustainable value has become more crucial than ever.
India is one of the best-positioned countries in Asia in terms of geography, cultural diversity, and economic potential. The nation’s business sector has improved significantly over time, with robust financial markets, a thriving startup ecosystem, and an increasing emphasis on corporate governance. With India emerging as a global economic powerhouse, CFOs are playing an instrumental role in ensuring financial transparency, fostering investor trust, and driving capital efficiency in organizations across industries.
Modern CFOs must also navigate the regulatory landscape, ensuring compliance with evolving financial regulations, tax laws, and corporate governance norms. They are responsible for mitigating risks, ensuring ethical financial practices, and enhancing organizational resilience against economic downturns or financial crises. Additionally, the emphasis on Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) factors has expanded the CFO’s role to include sustainability reporting and ethical financial decision-making.
Leadership and communication skills are now as essential as financial expertise for CFOs. They collaborate closely with CEOs, board members, investors, and other stakeholders to align financial strategies with business objectives. CFOs are also responsible for fostering a culture of innovation within finance teams, leveraging technology to improve forecasting accuracy, risk management, and decision-making capabilities.
The increasing complexity of global markets demands that CFOs possess a deep understanding of international trade, currency fluctuations, and cross-border financial strategies. As Indian companies expand their footprint internationally, CFOs must develop and execute financial strategies that optimize global performance, manage currency risks, and ensure compliance with multiple regulatory frameworks.
Furthermore, the role of CFOs extends to talent management within the finance function. They are responsible for mentoring finance professionals, building high-performing teams, and ensuring that their departments are equipped with the latest financial skills and technological expertise. This focus on talent development is essential to maintain the agility and adaptability required in today’s rapidly changing financial landscape.
The CFO’s role is evolving beyond number crunching to becoming a key architect of business growth, transformation, and resilience. As organizations strive for financial excellence, CFOs must remain agile, forward-thinking, and prepared to tackle new challenges head-on. Their ability to align financial strategies with corporate goals, leverage emerging technologies, and navigate complex regulatory environments will determine the long-term success of their organizations in an increasingly competitive global economy.
Listed below are the top 10 CFOs in India, recognized for their outstanding performance, credibility, leadership, and impact on the financial sector.
Samir Seksaria
Samir Seksaria is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), a global leader in IT services and consulting. With over two decades of experience at TCS, he has played a crucial role in shaping the company’s financial strategy and ensuring its continued growth.
A Chartered Accountant by qualification, Samir began his career with TCS in 1999. His expertise in financial planning, regulatory compliance, and business strategy positioned him as a key player in TCS’s financial transformation. He was instrumental in managing TCS’s landmark Initial Public Offering (IPO) in 2004, which was one of the largest in India at the time.
Before becoming CFO in 2021, he led the Business Finance function, overseeing financial management, corporate financial analytics, and strategic planning. His leadership has contributed to process simplification, enhanced cash management, and strong financial governance at TCS.
As CFO, Samir focuses on driving long-term financial sustainability, optimizing investments, and maintaining TCS’s strong market position. His deep understanding of financial analytics and strategic foresight ensures that TCS remains at the forefront of the IT industry. Under his leadership, the company continues to thrive in a competitive global market.
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Ritesh Tiwari
Ritesh Tiwari is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Hindustan Unilever Ltd. (HUL), India’s leading fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) company. With over two decades of experience at HUL, he has played a pivotal role in driving the company’s financial growth and strategic expansion.
A Chartered Accountant by qualification, Ritesh has been with Unilever for more than 24 years, holding key positions in finance, strategy, and business operations. His deep expertise in financial management, business transformation, and value creation has made him a crucial part of HUL’s leadership team.
Before becoming CFO in 2021, Ritesh served as the Vice President of Finance for Unilever’s global Nutrition Business, where he was instrumental in financial planning, portfolio management, and business restructuring. His experience spans across India, the UK, and other international markets, bringing a global perspective to HUL’s financial strategy.
As CFO, Ritesh focuses on driving sustainable growth, optimizing investments, and ensuring strong financial governance. His strategic foresight and financial acumen help HUL maintain its leadership in the FMCG sector. Under his leadership, the company continues to innovate, expand, and deliver long-term value to stakeholders.
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Soumen Ray
Soumen Ray is the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Bharti Airtel, one of India’s leading telecommunications companies. With extensive experience in financial strategy, corporate governance, and business transformation, he plays a pivotal role in driving Airtel’s financial growth and operational efficiency.
A Chartered Accountant by profession, Soumen has a strong background in financial management, having worked across various industries, including telecommunications, FMCG, and manufacturing. Before joining Bharti Airtel, he held leadership positions at renowned organizations such as Bajaj Auto, Vi (Vodafone Idea), and Hindustan Unilever.
Since assuming the role of CFO at Bharti Airtel, he has been instrumental in streamlining financial operations, optimizing cost structures, and supporting the company’s expansion in the highly competitive telecom sector. His expertise in corporate finance, investor relations, and regulatory compliance has strengthened Airtel’s financial position, enabling it to maintain its leadership in the industry.
Under his financial stewardship, Bharti Airtel continues to focus on innovation, digital transformation, and long-term value creation for stakeholders. His strategic vision ensures that the company remains well-positioned in an evolving telecommunications landscape.
Visit Soumen Ray’s Profile to know more about him. Feel free to contact Soumen Roy by joining the StartupLanes India WhatsApp Group.