Valapad: Asirvad Microfinance Limited, a microfinance institution, has announced the appointment of Dr Roy Varghese as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) and Unnikrishnan Janardanan as Chief Operating Officer (COO). These pivotal leadership changes reflect Asirvad’s commitment to inclusive growth, sound governance, and expanding access to financial services for underserved communities across the country.
Dr Roy Varghese brings with him over 33 years of banking experience, having held senior leadership roles across institutions such as Axis Bank, IDBI Bank, Jana Small Finance Bank, and CSB Bank. Known for his expertise in retail and corporate banking, foreign exchange, rural credit, agri-finance, and micro-lending, Dr Varghese is well-positioned to lead Asirvad’s strategic direction. As CEO, he will be responsible for driving nationwide growth, enhancing operational efficiency, and ensuring regulatory compliance.
Joining him in this leadership journey is Unnikrishnan Janardanan, who takes charge as COO. With over 30 years in banking and microfinance, Mr Janardanan most recently served as CEO of Navachetana Microfin Services Pvt Ltd, leading multi-state expansion efforts. His earlier stints include leadership roles at ICICI Bank, IndusInd Bank, DCB Bank, and Bajaj Auto Finance. In his new role, he will lead operational excellence, service delivery, and cross-functional integration at Asirvad.
Commenting on the appointments, the Board of Asirvad Microfinance said, “We are delighted to welcome Dr Roy Varghese and Mr Unnikrishnan Janardanan to the Asirvad team. Their vast experience in financial services, deep understanding of rural markets, and commitment to inclusive finance will further our mission of transforming lives through responsible microfinance. We are confident that, under their leadership, Asirvad will continue to scale new heights and deepen its impact across the communities we serve.”
As a subsidiary of Manappuram Finance Ltd, Asirvad Microfinance continues to remain focused on delivering financial services to underserved communities. These leadership changes reinforce the company’s strategic focus on sustainable growth, innovation, and empowerment.
