1 July 2024 Punjab Khabarnama : A last-minute suspense gripped the selection of a new chief of State Bank of India, succeeding Dinesh Khara, when FSIB postponed the interview of the three top managing directors shortlisted to run the elephant of Indian banking.
Apart from Challa Sreenivasulu Setty, who was later chosen as the chairman, the other two MDs who were to be interviewed were Ashwini Kumar Tewari and Vinay M Tonse.
The exact reasons for postponing the interview isn’t known yet but probably the Financial Services Institution Bureau (FSIB), an autonomous body under the central government, wanted to wait for the new government to take charge. When the announcement came finally, Setty’s name came on the expected lines. Out of the three, Setty is the senior most and has a strong CV with work experience across almost every major verticals of the bank for over three decades.
“He has a lovely personality. It is a treat working with him. Setty is a storehouse of knowledge and an excellent leader who will definitely take SBI to greater heights,” said a former colleague who has worked with him for a long period. “A great thing about him is that wherever you meet him, in work environment or social events, he will recognise your presence.”
Another top banker, who has been with a rival organisation, too said Setty is a right choice for the SBI top job. “He is very knowledgeable and meticulous. I always thought he was the most competent and fit candidate for this position,” said the banker who too declined to be named.