RAKESH BHALLA , CMA
A highly accomplished finance leader with 36+ years of industry experience, known for driving large-scale business turnarounds, financial excellence, and governance-led growth.

RAKESH BHALLA
A highly accomplished finance leader with 36+ years of industry experience, known for driving large-scale business turnarounds, financial excellence, and governance-led growth.
Key Highlights
- 36+ Years of Leadership Experience
- ₹2,400+ Cr Revenue Growth Led
- Award-Winning CFO
- Advisor to CEO – SML Mahindra
- Independent Director (IICA Registered)

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Chief Financial Officer & Chief Risk Officer
As Chief Financial Officer and Chief Risk Officer, I led the company through one of the most challenging and transformative phases in its history. Taking charge during the COVID-19 pandemic, I implemented robust financial discipline, strengthened risk management frameworks, and drove strategic decision-making across the organization.

Advisor to Chief Executive Officer
In my advisory role, I work closely with the CEO and senior leadership to provide strategic guidance on financial planning, governance, risk management, and long-term growth initiatives. I support leadership in strengthening financial controls, optimizing capital allocation, and aligning business strategy with sustainable value creation.

Head – Finance, Accounts, Taxation & Internal Audit
Over my long tenure, I handled key leadership responsibilities across Finance, Accounts, Taxation, and Internal Audit. I was responsible for statutory compliance, financial reporting, budgeting, cost control, audits, and taxation strategy. These roles strengthened financial discipline, compliance, and management decision-making.
ABOUT ME
Rakesh Bhalla, CMA
CFO | Chief Risk Officer | Board Advisor | Independent Director
I am a Fellow Member of the Institute of Cost Accountants of India (CMA) with over 36 years of rich and diversified industry experience, primarily with SML Isuzu Limited. My professional journey spans leadership roles across Finance, Internal Audit, Taxation, IT, Procurement, Vendor Development, and Risk Management.
I served as Chief Financial Officer and Chief Risk Officer during one of the most challenging periods in the company’s history, including the COVID-19 pandemic. Through strategic financial leadership, disciplined execution, and strong governance, I led a complete financial and operational turnaround of the organization.
Post my executive tenure, I am actively involved in advisory roles, supporting CEOs, boards, and institutions in areas of financial strategy, business transformation, risk management, and corporate governance.

BUSINESS TURNAROUND & KEY ACHIEVEMENTS
Under my leadership, SML Isuzu witnessed a remarkable transformation:
Revenue growth from ₹596 Cr (FY 2020–21) to ₹2,405 Cr (FY 2024–25)
EBITDA improvement from -10.7% to +10%
Record profit of ₹162.4 Cr in FY 2024–25
Share price growth from ₹452 to ₹4,000+
Market capitalization growth from ₹654 Cr to ₹5,788 Cr
🔹 PUBLIC SERVICE & POLICY INVOLVEMENT
- Convener – Chandigarh BJP Professional Cell
- Co-Convenor – State Team for Next-Gen GST Reforms
- Member – BJP Economic Cell
- Member – Chandigarh Administrator’s Advisory Council
- Standing Committee Member (Transportation) – Chandigarh

AWARDS & RECOGNITIONS

CFO of the Year – Excellence in Turnaround
Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) | 2024–25

CFO Outstanding Performer Award
Institute of Cost and Management Accountants of India (ICMAI) | 2024

Distinguished Supply Chain & Outstanding CFO Award
Institute of Materials Management (IIMM) | 2024

India CFO Award
Biz Integration | 2024

CMA Achiever Award
Institute of Cost Accountants of India | 2016

India CFO Award
Biz Integration | 2024

CMA Achiever Award
Institute of Cost Accountants of India | 2016
