The Inspiring Journey of Abhay Bhutada from Latur to Leadership
- Ravi Kohli
- Apr 10
- 3 min read
Updated: May 11
Abhay Bhutada, a name now widely recognized in the Indian business world, started his journey in Latur, Maharashtra. Coming from a small town, he pursued his dreams with determination and focus. Today, he is the founder of the Abhay Bhutada Foundation and serves as a strategic advisor to the Cyrus Poonawalla Group. His exceptional success was recently highlighted when Abhay Bhutada salary for FY24 was revealed to be Rs. 241.21 crore, making him the highest-paid executive in India.
What makes his journey stand out is how his growth has always been rooted in a strong work ethic, education, and the courage to take new paths. A Chartered Accountant by qualification, Abhay combined his knowledge with a keen sense for business innovation to climb the ranks early in his career.
First Steps into Finance
His professional life began in 2010 at the Bank of India, where he worked in SME finance. This early exposure helped him understand the challenges faced by small businesses, shaping his future focus. Soon after, Abhay started his consultancy to help small and medium enterprises get access to finance. It was clear from the beginning that he was driven by the desire to make a difference.
In 2016, this drive led to the launch of TAB Capital, a digital NBFC designed to bridge financial gaps for MSMEs. The company used technology to simplify lending and reach underserved areas. In 2019, the firm was acquired by Poonawalla Finance, and Abhay was appointed Managing Director and CEO.
Also read - India's Top 5 Highest-Paid Executives in 2024
Taking Poonawalla Fincorp to New Heights
The turning point came in 2021 when Abhay Bhutada took the lead in transforming a decades-old financial services firm into what is now known as Poonawalla Fincorp. Under his leadership, the company focused on technology and efficiency. In just a few years, it reached an asset base of Rs. 25,000 crore and reported a profit of Rs. 1,000 crore in FY2024.
His ability to turn around the company not only strengthened his reputation but also played a huge role in increasing Abhay Bhutada net worth, which now stands at over Rs. 1000 crore. The numbers reflect his focus on building long-term value, not just rapid growth.
Also read - Abhay Bhutada's Finance Journey
Moving Toward Strategic Roles
After making Poonawalla Fincorp a strong and profitable company, Abhay chose to step down as Managing Director. His decision was based on his desire to pursue a broader entrepreneurial journey. He now advises the Cyrus Poonawalla Group on strategy and investments, helping shape its future direction.
Abhay Bhutada's salary figures are not just about money—they represent the outcome of smart choices, consistent effort, and a clear vision. His approach to business always included the use of digital tools, new-age strategies, and data to deliver better results.
Giving Back Through His Foundation
Abhay Bhutada has always believed in giving back to society. Through the Abhay Bhutada Foundation, he supports various causes, especially in education, healthcare, and sports. One notable initiative is the ‘Learn by Doing’ project, where the foundation distributes STEM kits to students in Pune. These kits include practical tools like microscopes to make science more fun and interactive.
He also launched the Abhay Bhutada Scholarship Program to help bright students from low-income backgrounds get a fair shot at success. In the healthcare space, the foundation organizes medical camps and promotes rural health awareness.
Young athletes from underprivileged communities have also received support, as Abhay wants to ensure that talent doesn’t go unnoticed due to a lack of resources.
A Life of Recognition and Responsibility
Over the years, Abhay Bhutada has been honored with multiple awards for his achievements, such as the ‘Global Indian of the Year’ in 2023 and the ‘Young Entrepreneur of India’ in 2017. These awards recognize both his business success and his impact on society.
More importantly, his life is an example of staying grounded while reaching great heights. He believes in constantly learning, taking smart risks, and using every experience as a way to grow.
Conclusion
The journey of Abhay Bhutada shows that success isn’t just about earning more—it’s about building something meaningful. From a student in Latur to one of India’s top executives, his rise has been steady and purpose-driven. With a focus on innovation and a heart for giving back, Abhay continues to be a role model for many. His story is proof that with the right vision and values, one can create both wealth and lasting impact.
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