Breaking the glass ceiling in the Indian banking sector, Naina Lal Kidwai made history by becoming the first Indian woman to head a foreign bank in India when she was appointed as the Country Head and Group General Manager of HSBC India in 2006.
With an illustrious career spanning decades, Kidwai’s appointment to the top role at HSBC India marked a turning point for women in finance. She was not only the first woman from India to graduate from Harvard Business School (MBA, 1982), but also one of the most respected voices in global banking.
“Her appointment was a landmark moment for Indian women in leadership and the financial services industry,” said a senior industry analyst.
As HSBC India’s head, Naina Lal Kidwai was responsible for overseeing the bank’s strategy, operations, and expansion across India, guiding one of the largest foreign banks in the country through regulatory and market changes.
- Name: Naina Lal Kidwai
- Position: Country Head and Group General Manager, HSBC India
- Year of Appointment: 2006
- Historic First: First woman to head a foreign bank in India
- Educational Background: First Indian woman MBA from Harvard Business School (1982)
Throughout her career, Kidwai has championed financial inclusion, women’s empowerment, and sustainable development. She has also served on several national and international boards and committees, further enhancing India’s representation in global financial discourse.
