Biography of Amit Gainda: Co-founder and CEO of Avanse Financial Services
Story of Amit Gainda: Pioneering Education Financing in India
A Journey Begins in Education
Amit Gainda's path to becoming a leading figure in education
finance started with his foundational education at Sri Venkateswara College,
Delhi University, where he completed his Bachelor’s degree in Commerce in 1996.
His academic journey was marked by a commitment to excellence, which was
further honed at the Institute of Management Technology (IMT) in Ghaziabad,
where he specialized in Financial Management and Finance. His dedication to his
studies earned him a notable 4th rank in his cohort, setting the stage for his
future successes.
Advanced Learning at Prestigious Institutions
Gainda’s quest for knowledge led him to International
Management Institute (IMI), where he pursued a Post Graduate Program in
Management with a focus on Marketing and Finance from 1999 to 2002. His drive
for continuous learning did not stop there. He further enriched his expertise
through a One Year Executive Education Program at INSEAD in Singapore and
France, which equipped him with advanced general management skills and a global
perspective on business practices.
Early Career Foundations
Starting his career at ESERVE, a Citigroup Company, in 1997,
Gainda built a strong foundation in collections and recoveries. His role
involved handling collections and recoveries for auto and consumer finance,
which sharpened his skills in financial management and risk assessment. This
early experience was pivotal in developing his understanding of the financial
industry and managing complex financial operations.
Biography of Amit Gainda: Co-founder and CEO of Avanse Financial Services/Entrepreneur/Success story of Amit Gainda/ Avanse Financial Services/Life
Gaining Expertise at GE Money
In 2003, Gainda joined GE Money, where he spent over eight
years. His roles ranged from being a Product Head for Loan Against Property to
Vice President, overseeing national sales and risk management. This period was
instrumental in honing his expertise in mortgages and collections, setting him
up for future leadership roles. His work in Six Sigma and risk management
provided him with a robust framework for operational efficiency.
Transition to Bajaj Finance
In 2008, Gainda transitioned to Bajaj Finance Limited,
taking on various leadership roles over a span of six years. His responsibilities
included heading the Loan Against Property and Home Loans divisions. His tenure
at Bajaj Finance was marked by significant achievements, including driving
business growth and developing tailored financial products for SMEs and
individual borrowers.
A New Chapter at DHFL
Gainda’s next significant role was at Dewan Housing Finance
Corporation Ltd. (DHFL), where he served as President of Mortgages and SME
Businesses. His strategic vision and leadership were key in driving the
company's mortgage and SME business growth, solidifying his reputation as a
skilled financial strategist.
The Birth of Avanse Financial Services
In 2013, Amit Gainda embarked on a new venture by joining
Avanse Financial Services, an NBFC focused on education financing. His vision
for Avanse was clear: to provide accessible and affordable education loans to
students across India. The company aimed to address the growing need for
education financing amid rising fees and increasing aspirations among students
and parents.
Strategic Leadership and Growth
Under Gainda’s leadership, Avanse Financial Services rapidly
evolved. He was instrumental in transforming the company into a
customer-centric, digitally agile NBFC. His approach combined perseverance,
passion, and proactiveness, which he termed the “3P Potion” for success. This
strategy helped Avanse become one of the fastest-growing education-focused financial
institutions in India.
Comprehensive Education Financing Solutions
Avanse Financial Services offers a range of tailor-made
solutions catering to various educational needs. From financing for
international and domestic education to e-learning and skill enhancement, the
company’s offerings cover the entire education lifecycle. This comprehensive
approach reflects Gainda’s commitment to addressing diverse educational needs.
Innovative and Student-Centric Approach
One of the unique aspects of Avanse’s approach is its
student-centric loan evaluation process. Unlike traditional models that focus
primarily on the financial background of co-borrowers, Avanse assesses the
student’s profile, including academic performance and test scores. This method
ensures that deserving students receive the financial support they need based
on their potential and achievements.
Expanding Educational Opportunities
Gainda’s vision extended beyond conventional education
financing. Under his leadership, Avanse began funding non-traditional courses
in fields like aviation, filmmaking, robotics, and industrial automation. This
forward-thinking approach reflects the company’s commitment to supporting a
wide range of educational pursuits and emerging career paths.
Leveraging Technology for Efficiency
In today’s digital age, Avanse has leveraged technology to
enhance its services. The company’s robust digital infrastructure allows for
quick loan processing, with approvals often completed within 72 hours of
application. This technological agility ensures that students receive timely
financial support, which is crucial for pursuing their educational goals.
Empowering Through Education
Gainda emphasizes the importance of education in individual
and national development. He believes that investing in education financing not
only helps students achieve their academic aspirations but also contributes to
the broader economic growth of the country. His dedication to this cause is
evident in Avanse’s mission and strategic direction.
A Focus on Employee Development
Amit Gainda also prioritizes the development of his team at
Avanse. He fosters a work environment that encourages continuous learning and
professional growth. By focusing on “Return on Intelligence,” Gainda ensures
that employees are not only skilled but also aligned with the company’s goals
and values, thereby enhancing overall performance and stakeholder value.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Gainda is committed to expanding Avanse’s
reach and impact. His goal is to further enhance the company’s offerings and
maintain its leadership position in the education financing sector. By
continually adapting to changing market dynamics and student needs, Gainda aims
to support even more students in achieving their academic dreams.
Leadership and Legacy
Amit Gainda’s leadership has been pivotal in shaping Avanse
Financial Services into a leading education-focused NBFC. His strategic vision,
combined with a deep understanding of the financial and educational landscapes,
has positioned the company as a key player in education financing. Gainda’s
legacy is marked by his commitment to democratizing education and providing
financial solutions that cater to the diverse needs of students.
Contributing to the Economy
Through Avanse, Gainda is making a significant impact on the
education sector and the economy. By providing innovative and accessible
financing solutions, he is helping students pursue higher education and
contributing to the development of a skilled and educated workforce. His work
exemplifies the power of financial services in driving social and economic
progress.
A Commitment to Excellence
Amit Gainda’s journey reflects a deep commitment to
excellence in education financing. His leadership at Avanse Financial Services
showcases his dedication to providing high-quality, customer-centric solutions
that address the evolving needs of students and educational institutions.
Gainda’s ongoing efforts ensure that Avanse remains a leader in the field,
continuing to make a positive difference in the lives of many.
Timeline for Amit Gainda’s journey
1996: Earned Bachelor's degree in Commerce from Sri
Venkateswara College, Delhi University.
2002: Completed Post Graduate Program in Management at IMI,
specializing in Marketing and Finance.
2003: Joined GE Money, focusing on mortgages and risk
management.
2008: Transitioned to Bajaj Finance, leading Loan Against
Property and Home Loans divisions.
2013: Co-founded Avanse Financial Services, focusing on
education financing.
Growth: Transformed Avanse into a leading education-focused
NBFC with a customer-centric and digital approach.
Innovations: Introduced student-centric loan evaluation and
expanded financing to non-traditional courses.
Technology: Leveraged digital infrastructure for efficient
loan processing.
Employee Focus: Emphasized continuous learning and
professional growth within Avanse.
Future Vision: Committed to expanding Avanse’s reach and
enhancing education financing solutions.
