Mumbai/Kochi, September 30, 2026: South Indian Bank announced that Mr. Mahesh Muralidhar Pai will take charge as the Managing Director & Chief Executive Officer of the Bank, effective 1 October 2026. An accomplished banker, Mr. Mahesh Pai brings nearly three decades of experience across various facets of universal banking, including strategy, governance, digital banking, treasury, foreign exchange, retail banking, agriculture and MSME credit.
During his career at Canara Bank as Chief General Manager, Mr. Mahesh Pai drove several strategic and business-critical initiatives, including setting up the Bank’s gold loan vertical. He also led one of Canara Bank’s largest zones, gaining extensive experience in business leadership, customer acquisition, credit and operational management across diverse markets.
His professional experience also includes a stint with Canara Bank’s overseas operations in New York, USA, providing him with exposure to international banking operations and global financial markets. He has also served on the boards of several reputed organisations, including Fixed Income Money Market and Derivatives Association of India (FIMMDA), SWIFT India Domestic Services Pvt. Ltd. and Karnataka State Financial Corporation.
Commenting on Mr. Mahesh Pai taking charge, Mr. Jose Joseph Kattoor, Chairman, South Indian Bank, said, “Mr. Mahesh Pai brings a strong combination of banking expertise, business leadership and experience in driving strategic initiatives. As South Indian Bank builds on the progress made in recent years, his leadership will be important in strengthening execution, deepening customer relationships and accelerating the Bank’s digital and business transformation.”
Mr. Mahesh Muralidhar Pai, Managing Director & CEO, South Indian Bank, said, “South Indian Bank has a strong franchise, a robust balance sheet and significant growth opportunities ahead. My focus will be on driving our businesses, pursuing growth opportunities with discipline and strengthening our capabilities for a rapidly evolving financial landscape. We will remain focused on sharper execution, technology-led transformation and deeper customer relationships, while delivering sustainable growth for the Bank and value for our stakeholders.”