Abhay Bhutada, an experienced Chartered Accountant, showcased his lending expertise through the establishment and successful operation of TAB Capital Limited, a digital-lending Non-Banking Financial Company specialising in retail loans, MSME financing, and consumer lending. Serving as the Founder, Chairman, and Managing Director, he propelled TAB Capital’s growth for three years. Later, in 2019, the Poonawalla Group acquired TAB Capital, leading to the formation of Poonawalla Finance Private Limited. As MD and CEO, he played a pivotal role in building the lending business for Poonawalla Finance, adopting a digital-centric lending approach. In 2021, he orchestrated the acquisition and integration of a renowned financial services conglomerate, rebranding it as Poonawalla Fincorp. By implementing technology-driven and digital-first lending strategies, he significantly bolstered Poonawalla Fincorp’s business in the past two years.
Under Abhay’s sterling leadership, Poonawalla Fincorp has experienced an extraordinary surge in the financial industry. This non-banking financial institution, valued at nearly $3 billion, has witnessed unparalleled quarterly profits, net income, and loan disbursals over the past two years. It has experienced significant growth in assets under management, which have risen by an impressive 37% year-on-year to reach Rs. 16,143 crore. Loan disbursals have also seen a remarkable increase, reaching Rs. 6,371 crore, a growth of 151% compared to the previous year. Currently, Abhay is leading Poonawalla Fincorp to embark on a new trajectory by targeting a range of customers, offering innovative products, and embracing digital transformation.
CUSTOMER-CENTRIC LEADERSHIP
Abhay’s unrelenting focus on customer centricity lies at the very core of his strategic approach, transforming visions into tangible realities with astounding precision. While he relentlessly pushes the boundaries of conventional finance through technology, he remains deeply committed to nurturing a people-centric environment at Poonawalla Fincorp, where the ethos of productivity, dedication, and hard work is richly rewarded. The approach has helped in creating an environment where the workforce not only thrives amid conducive work dynamics, but also flourishes with ample opportunities for skill enhancement and self-discovery.
A FORWARD-THINKING ENTREPRENEUR
Abhay believes that the integration of fintech, non-banking financial institutions, and traditional banking services is vital to effectively address industry’s future needs. He is spearheading Poonawalla Fincorp’s efforts to significantly transform the financial landscape and empower customers by providing them with their preferred lending solutions. He describes this endeavour as the “intersection of technology and finance,” where technological advancements disrupt conventional lending practices. Focused on growth through tech-led businesses and a branch-lite model, he wants his company to lead the market in consumer and MSME financing. He also emphasises the importance of selectively targeting customer segments, a strategy that helped in building their MSME lending business. As a goal-driven leader, Abhay has set his sights on establishing the company as the foremost trusted financial services brand in India, guided by its Management Vision 2025. His mission is to empower individuals and businesses by providing exceptional, customer-centric products and solutions.
A COMPASSIONATE INDIVIDUAL
Under Abhay’s leadership, Poonawalla Fincorp actively contributes to the betterment of society. It has implemented projects aimed at enhancing the quality of life, such as promoting education and providing essential support in areas like food and healthcare. During the pandemic, it contributed Rs. 5 crore to PM CARES Fund. It also played a significant role in various construction projects, including a 120-bed super specialty hospital, shelter home, old age home for women, and schools for marginalised children in West Bengal and a digital lab for underprivileged children in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.
GARNERING ACCOLADES
Abhay’s exceptional leadership has garnered numerous accolades for his company, including titles such as the Economic Times Future Ready Organization 2023-24 and the Marksmen Daily’s Most Preferred Workplace 2022-23. Its dedication to customer-centricity was recognised with the Economic Times CX Awards 2022 for the Most Customer Centric Brand, and digital prowess led to the title of Best Digital NBFC of the Year at the 4th Annual NBFC Summit 2022. The company bagged the Gold Award at the 37th Annual Convention of Quality Control Forum of India 2022 and the Cybersecurity Financial Team of the Year 2022 Award by Quantic India.
Abhay’s personal achievements include being named The Economic Times Most Promising Business Leader of Asia at the Asian Business Leaders Conclave 2020, The Economic Times Promising Entrepreneurs of India 2020, and the Young Entrepreneur of the Year in 2017.
