Biju Punnachalil has been appointed as the Chief Risk Officer (CRO) at Bandhan Bank, effective July 2025, bringing with him an illustrious career of over 29 years in the banking sector. Based in Kolkata, Biju is set to lead the bank’s overall risk strategy, governance, and compliance functions. His appointment marks a significant move for Bandhan Bank as it sharpens its focus on risk resilience and robust risk architecture in a dynamic financial environment.
Prior to joining Bandhan Bank, Biju served an extensive and impactful tenure at South Indian Bank, where he held multiple senior positions over nearly three decades. Most recently, he was the General Manager and previously held the title of Chief Risk Officer from 2017 to 2025, playing a central role in steering the bank’s risk management strategy. His leadership was instrumental in implementing strong internal control systems and aligning the bank’s risk practices with evolving regulatory frameworks.
Throughout his career at South Indian Bank, Biju moved through the ranks, beginning as Assistant General Manager and steadily rising to Deputy General Manager, Joint General Manager, and eventually General Manager and CRO. His deep understanding of enterprise risk, credit risk, and operational risk management made him a trusted leader in navigating complex financial landscapes. His tenure was marked by proactive risk mitigation strategies and the cultivation of a strong risk-aware culture.
At Bandhan Bank, Biju’s mandate includes enhancing risk assessment models, ensuring regulatory compliance, and enabling sustainable growth through prudent risk controls. His experience will be crucial as the bank continues its expansion in key markets, balancing innovation with financial security. Known for his strategic foresight and collaborative approach, Biju is expected to be a driving force behind the bank’s next phase of risk evolution.
With his proven leadership and deep domain expertise, Biju Punnachalil’s appointment is a testament to Bandhan Bank’s commitment to strengthening its risk management framework. His presence is set to usher in a new era of resilient banking, reinforcing the institution’s stability and trust in the eyes of stakeholders and regulators alike.