slice, a consumer payments and lending company has announced the strategic appointment of Eugene Karthak as an independent board director and S Vishvanathan as advisor. With the fintech industry poised for revolutionary change, the appointments come at a crucial time for slice as it pursues its ambition to become a one-stop app for all things payments, slice stated.
“We are delighted to have Mr. Eugene and Mr. Vishvanathan join the slice family. As we navigate this pivotal stage of growth, the guidance of these seasoned and accomplished leaders will be instrumental in steering slice towards its objectives. With their combined expertise, we can enhance our corporate governance practices and learn from their vast experience,” said Rajan Bajaj, founder and chief executive officer (CEO) of slice.
Eugene Karthak, former executive director of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI), brings over three decades of experience in banking regulation, supervision, information technology, financial inclusion, currency management and more. Before assuming office as the executive director of RBI, he was the regional director of RBI for Sikkim, Karnataka and Delhi offices respectively. He was closely associated with CBI (Central Bureau of Investigation) for over six years to guide investigations of bank frauds in India and internationally. Karthak is currently the director of the Indian Institute of Bank Management, a premier training institute for bankers. At slice, he will focus on providing strategic advice and promoting robust corporate governance.
“I am excited to join one of the youngest and leading fintech companies as India's fintech movement expands exponentially. My goal is to help implement the finest governance strategies and ensure slice remains at the forefront of this movement," observed Karthak.
S Vishvanathan is a banking and finance veteran with 37 years of experience. He led the State Bank of India (SBI) as the managing director and as director on the Central Board. Prior to that, he was managing director and chief executive officer (CEO) of SBI Capital Markets Limited. At slice, he will guide strategic decision-making in line with the company’s mission and vision.
"The collaboration between banks and fintechs is essential for the future of financial services. slice has created a unique offering in this space, recognising the importance of inclusive partnerships to lead India's financial services industry. I am eager to contribute to this association and optimistic about forging a strategic roadmap for both the company and the ecosystem," said Vishvanathan.
slice recently overhauled its product offerings to deliver a comprehensive payments experience with products like slice borrow, slice mini and slice UPI. The company joined India's prestigious Unicorn club in November 2021 after raising $220 million in its series B fundraise, co-led by Tiger Global and Insight Partners.