Rajesh Saxena (87batch) New CEO of American Express, India

From Money Control

Published on Wed, Feb 04, 2009 at 15:37 , Updated at Wed, Feb 04, 2009 at 16:26
Source : Moneycontrol.com

American Express today announced the appointment of Rajesh Saxena as Chief Executive Officer for American Express Banking Corp. (AEBC), India. Rajesh will head the Country Executive Team and directly manage the International Consumer Card and Small Business Services, leading the company’s marketing, acquisition, product development and insurance areas.

In this role, Rajesh will also spearhead several strategic and business development initiatives for the company while steering smooth collaboration across its diverse businesses in India. His position will be key to advancing and strengthening the company’s strategic focus in India.

Rajesh will be based in Gurgaon and will report to John Steward, Executive Vice President, ICSS, World Markets.

“I am delighted to welcome Rajesh to American Express. He represents the ideal combination of vast international experience and an in-depth understanding of diverse markets coupled with a natural knack for leading from the front. We are confident that his commitment to excel in everything he does, his strong values and work ethic will further strengthen the brand’s leadership in the Indian market,” said Mr. Steward.

India’s dynamic market has served as the launch pad for American Express’ several industry-leading initiatives including the launch of The Platinum Club, American Express Kingfisher First Card in strategic partnership with Kingfisher and Airtel and the Ultimate Platinum Experiences for its affluent Cardmembers.

Detailing his appointment, Rajesh said, “India is undoubtedly one of the most important financial services markets in the world, characterized by its ever expanding consumer base, evolving lifestyle and spending needs. As a premium payment solutions brand, AXP has a definitive competitive edge in providing high-quality service. My role will be to further enhance quality and service culture though innovative products and solutions to meet the ever growing needs of affluent population in India. I am extremely happy to take on this new role with American Express - one of the world’s most trusted and respected service brands.”

An 18-year veteran of consumer and retail banking, Rajesh joins from Citibank where he held several senior management positions in Operations, Business Development, Merchant Network, Consumer Credit, Sales, Marketing and general management functions across five geographies including India, Israel, UAE, Turkey and Japan.

Most recently he served as Sales and Marketing Head, Citi Cards in Japan where he had diverse responsibilities in all front office units including sales, marketing, partnership, merchants, corporate business and merchandising. Rajesh earned a Bachelors of Engineering degree from BITS, Pilani and an MBA from XLRI in Jamshedpur.

American Express Company is a leading global payments and travel company founded in 1850.

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