Standard Chartered Appoints P.D. Singh as New CEO for India
With 30 years of banking experience, P.D. Singh is set to become Standard Chartered India's new CEO with a vision to strengthen leadership and foster innovation.
Standard Chartered has announced the appointment of P.D. Singh as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for India, effective April 1, 2025. He will succeed Zarin Daruwala, who will retire on March 31, 2025.
With nearly three decades of experience in banking and finance, Singh has held leadership and coverage roles across prominent European and American financial institutions. Prior to joining Standard Chartered, he served as CEO of JP Morgan Chase Bank in India, where he was instrumental in shaping the bank’s corporate banking franchise as a founding member. Under his leadership, the bank received multiple industry accolades for excellence in performance. Before his tenure at JP Morgan, he spent a decade at HSBC, holding key leadership positions in corporate and commercial banking. Holding dual MBA degrees alongside an engineering background, he has made significant contributions to the financial sector.
Commenting on the appointment, Sunil Kaushal, Co-Head, Corporate & Investment Banking and CEO, ASEAN and South Asia, Standard Chartered Bank, stated that they have extended a warm welcome to P.D. Singh. India remains a strategic market for Standard Chartered, and as the country’s growth trajectory continues, and they have ambitious plans for expansion. His extensive market expertise and strong client and stakeholder relationships will further strengthen the Bank’s leadership team as they accelerate the cross-border and wealth strategy.
Kaushal also appreciated Daruwala’s leadership and expressed sincere gratitude to Zarin Daruwala for her invaluable contributions over the past nine years as CEO of India & South Asia.
Reflecting on his new role, Singh expressed that joining Standard Chartered, a financial institution with a distinguished legacy of over 165 years, is a privilege. He has closely observed the Bank’s growth and strategic ambitions in India and looks forward to driving sustained expansion while delivering value to stakeholders.
Singh's Vision for the Future of Standard Chartered in India
Singh’s appointment is pivotal for Standard Chartered as the bank continues to focus on enhancing its market presence and driving innovation in the financial services sector. Singh is known for his strategic vision and ability to execute complex business plans. As he steps into his new role, he is expected to bring a fresh perspective that will help the bank navigate the evolving financial landscape in India.
Under Singh’s leadership, Standard Chartered aims to leverage digital transformation and fintech partnerships to offer cutting-edge solutions to its clients. Emphasising customer-centricity, Singh plans to enhance the bank’s product offerings and expand its reach to underserved markets. His approach is likely to involve a combination of traditional banking excellence and modern technological advancements to cater to the diverse needs of Indian customers.
Strategic Initiatives and Market Expansion
Singh is keen on pursuing strategic initiatives that align with Standard Chartered’s global objectives while catering to the local market dynamics. This includes strengthening the bank’s presence in key retail banking, wealth management, and corporate banking sectors. Singh aims to ensure seamless operations and compliance with evolving regulations by fostering strong relationships with regulatory authorities and industry stakeholders.
Furthermore, Singh’s extensive experience in managing large teams and driving organisational growth will be instrumental in achieving the bank’s expansion goals. His leadership style, characterised by a collaborative and inclusive approach, is expected to inspire the bank’s employees and drive a culture of innovation and excellence.
P.D. Singh’s appointment as CEO of Standard Chartered India marks a new chapter in the bank’s journey. With his vast experience, strategic vision, and commitment to excellence, Singh is well-positioned to lead the bank towards sustained growth and success in the Indian market. As he takes the helm, the bank’s clients, stakeholders, and employees can look forward to a future of innovation, growth, and prosperity.
