About Founder
RAGHU BALAKRISHNAN
CA, CWA, CFA (US), CPA (US), FRM (US)- Expertise in Strategy
- Financial Planning & Analysis
- Business Processes
Raghu is a highly accomplished finance professional with over 25 years of varied experience in the banking and financial services sector. His broad knowledge encompasses various areas, including investment banking, corporate finance, financial control, and business development. In his most recent role, Raghu was a partner in Cognitive Advisory Services LLP and GST serve Advisory Services LLP, two advisory firms focusing on MSME client in Kerala.
In his previous role, Raghu held the position of Senior Vice President in the Private Equity Division of Gulf One Investment Bank, a prominent investment bank based in Bahrain. Raghu played a pivotal role in structuring, investing, and managing private equity funds, as well as overseeing the bank's direct investments exceeding US$300 million across the Middle East, the Levant, and Western Europe. He possesses substantial expertise in business strategy, developing comprehensive business plans, implementing efficient MIS reporting systems, streamlining business processes, and providing valuable insights on general corporate finance matters.
Prior to his time at Gulf One, Raghu served as an Assistant Vice President involved in the advancement of Société Générale's asset management activities in the Gulf Cooperation Council region. Within Société Générale, he was an integral part of a team responsible for structuring and managing innovative asset management products, including private equity funds totaling US$10 billion, primarily catering to Sovereign Wealth Funds, Financial Institutions, and High Net Worth Individuals.
Raghu's career trajectory also includes a position as a Supervisor in KPMG Bahrain's and as an articled clerk in PWC India’s audit department, where he gained significant experience in managing and executing audits for manufacturing companies, financial institutions, oil and gas entities and large corporations.
In addition to his extensive practical experience, Raghu holds impressive professional qualifications. He is an all-India rank holder Chartered Accountant, an all-India rank holder Cost Accountant, a Chartered Financial Analyst (USA) charter holder, a Certified Public Accountant (USA), and a Financial Risk Manager (USA).These designations underscore his commitment to continuous learning and professional development, ensuring that he remains at the forefront of the evolving global business landscape.
