The Royal Bank of Scotland in India was led by Meera Sanyal as CEO and chairperson before she transitioned into a career centered on public policy and political activism. Her professional trajectory spanned over three decades in finance, concluding with a deliberate departure from the corporate sector to pursue electoral service in Mumbai.
Professional Background
Sanyal held significant leadership roles within the banking sector, including serving as the head of Corporate Finance and COO for ABN AMRO in Asia. During her tenure at the Royal Bank of Scotland, she oversaw a microfinance initiative that provided funding to over 650,000 women across rural India. Additionally, she directed the bank's foundation, which supported 75,000 women-led households. Her expertise led to her involvement with various international summits, including speaking engagements in Copenhagen, Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, and Seoul.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →Education and Early Life
Born in Kochi in 1961, she was the daughter of Vice Admiral Gulab Mohanlal Hiranandani and Banu Hiranandani. She completed her undergraduate commerce degree at Sydenham College in 1982. Her advanced education included an MBA from INSEAD, obtained in 1983, and completion of the six-week Advanced Management Program at Harvard Business School in 2006. She was a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Bankers.
Political Aspirations
Following the 2008 Mumbai attacks, Sanyal sought a seat in the Lok Sabha by running as an independent candidate for the Mumbai South constituency in 2009. She later joined the Aam Aadmi Party, serving on its National Committee on Economic Policy. In the 2014 Lok Sabha elections, she contested the South Mumbai seat as an Aam Aadmi Party candidate, finishing in fourth position with 5.2 percent of the recorded vote.
Governance and Advocacy
Beyond her banking and political roles, Sanyal participated in the management of several organizations. She served on the boards of Pradan, Jai Hind College, and the Indian Liberal Group. Her international commitments included a seat on the board of Right to Play.
Fast facts
- Born: 1961, Kochi
- Died: 11 January 2019, Mumbai
- Education: Sydenham College, INSEAD, Harvard Business School
- Key Roles: CEO and Chairperson, Royal Bank of Scotland in India
- Political Affiliation: Aam Aadmi Party
- Cause of Death: Cancer
Questions readers ask
What was Meera Sanyal's primary career field?
She was a banker for over 30 years before shifting her focus to politics.
Did Sanyal win a seat in the Lok Sabha elections?
No, she lost her 2009 independent bid and her 2014 campaign as an Aam Aadmi Party candidate.
Achievements
- Educated at Harvard Business School and Sydenham College
.jpg)