Ashutosh Kumar recognised as Transaction Finance Leader of the Year

Under his leadership as Co-Head, and subsequently as Head of Global Transaction Banking since October 2023, this individual has effectively used his extensive experience in strategic execution, innovation, and digitalisation within transaction banking to position Mizuho as the leading Asian International Transaction Bank for the fifth consecutive year, navigating skillfully the diverse markets of Asia Pacific. 

As someone who has built a reputation for an unwavering commitment to transforming businesses, his achievements reflects a deep understanding of Global Transaction Banking. In an era marked by geopolitical uncertainties, inflationary tendencies, and a new interest rate cycle, his skills in elevating the business and strengthening the transaction banking team, coupled with maintaining significantly lower attrition rates, showcased the exceptional leadership in business acumen, human resource management and talent development. 

Right from the day of his joining, he understood that his biggest challenge would be to bring a shift in the mindsets in order to build a more successful franchise. To convert these challenges into opportunities, he set the tone, pace and direction whilst aligning the long-term strategy with the required transformative steps to achieve results. Through his proactive leadership, he garnered partners support to mobilize collaborative forces across the bank.

He has driven significant growth in Mizuho's revenues in Asia Oceania over the last two years and has set high standards in digital banking innovations. He has driven digital capabilities through the establishment of a Digital and IT road-map for transaction banking. Based on this forward-looking road-map, he continues to lead a multi-year product rollout through the harmonisation of conventional and digital product capabilities. His efforts further include spearheading the bank's Trade Corridor Strategy, which enhances collaboration and synergy across the region, thus boosting Mizuho’s capacity to effectively support clients' overseas expansion plans.  

Recognising his extensive experience and transformative leadership in establishing Mizuho Bank as the Best Asian International Transaction Bank, and considering the business growth under his leadership and his standing among peers, this choice is clear. It is with great pleasure and deep respect for his achievements that The Asian Banker, by unanimous vote of the international council, announces Mr. Ashutosh Kumar, Head of Global Transaction Banking, Asia Pacific at Mizuho Bank, as ‘Transaction Finance Leader of the Year’.

View the full image gallery of the gala awards here