Neelesh Vernekar

Chief Executive Officer (CEO)
Mumbai, Maharashtra, India

Professional Overview

Neelesh Vernekar is a seasoned financial services executive with over 25 years of experience in corporate banking, asset management, and infrastructure investment. As the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of IL&FS INFRA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED, he is responsible for driving the strategic direction, operational excellence, and sustainable growth of the firm's infrastructure asset management business.

Experience Summary

Current Role

As the CEO of IL&FS INFRA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED since August 2023, Neelesh is leveraging his deep industry expertise and leadership acumen to spearhead the firm's mission to become a leading player in the Indian infrastructure asset management space. He is responsible for overseeing the company's investment strategies, portfolio management, and risk mitigation, while also fostering strong partnerships with institutional investors and key industry stakeholders.

Career Progression

Prior to his current role, Neelesh served as the Chief Investment Officer (CIO) at IL&FS Mutual Fund -Infra Asset Management Co. from 2017 to 2023, where he successfully guided the firm's infrastructure-focused investment portfolio and drove significant growth in assets under management. Before that, he held various leadership positions at Standard Chartered Bank, including Head of Region Corporate Banking, Head of Indian Network and MNC Clients, and Director and Team Leader for Corporate and Institutional Clients. Neelesh's earlier experience also includes serving as Sector Head and Vice-President of Credit and Relationship Management at Axis Bank and an Assistant Manager role at Ashok Leyland.

Academic Background

Neelesh holds a strong academic foundation, having completed his education in India. His areas of specialization and notable achievements include:

Education:

• Master's degree in Business Administration (MBA)

• Bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering

Areas of Expertise

• Infrastructure investment and asset management

• Corporate banking and relationship management

• Credit risk analysis and portfolio optimization

• Strategic planning and business development

• Team leadership and organizational transformation

Professional Impact

Throughout his career, Neelesh has demonstrated a track record of driving sustainable growth, implementing innovative investment strategies, and fostering strong partnerships within the infrastructure and financial services sectors. His expertise and contributions have been instrumental in shaping the industry, and he continues to leverage his insights to create value for his clients and stakeholders.

Conclusion

With his extensive experience, exceptional leadership skills, and deep industry knowledge, Neelesh Vernekar is well-positioned to guide IL&FS INFRA ASSET MANAGEMENT LIMITED to new heights of success. As CEO, he is focused on strengthening the firm's position as a trusted partner for institutional investors seeking exposure to India's dynamic infrastructure landscape.