FIROZ LATHEEF
Dubai
Summary
Over twenty years of experience in the banking sector with a focus on team leadership and operational excellence. Demonstrated success in customer acquisition and revenue growth, while maintaining strict adherence to risk and compliance standards. Established and launched five new branches across three banks, showcasing strong project management capabilities. Expertise in strategic planning and financial management, driving productivity and efficient operations.
Overview
21
21
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Branch Head
RBL BANK LTD
Kochi
05.2021 - 02.2025
- Successfully established the new branch, exceeding business objectives through effective team leadership.
- First Branch Manager in the Kerala Cluster to achieve over 100 million within six months of inception.
- Achieved recognition as a Top 10 Branch Manager PAN India for outstanding performance in Life and Health Insurance within the first six months of branch opening.
- Distinguished as the sole Branch Manager to surpass over a lakh in health insurance sales for six consecutive months nationwide.
- Led a branch recognized for the lowest staff turnover rate, exemplifying effective employee retention strategies.
- Diligently monitored large-value transactions, identifying and reporting suspicious or skeptical transactions to the AML/Vigilance team. Also prevented the establishment of mule accounts through detailed profiling.
Branch Manager
BANDHAN BANK LTD
Kochi
06.2020 - 05.2021
- Spearheaded the launch and growth of two branches in Palakkad and Aluva, significantly expanding CASA and Term Deposit portfolios.
- Exceeded cross-selling targets, consistently delivering business results that aligned with executive benchmarks.
- Cultivated expertise in branch operations, strategic market expansion, and effective cross-selling methodologies.
Branch Manager
INDUSIND BANK LTD
Kochi
06.2015 - 05.2020
- Earned international destination trips as a top performer in the life insurance business.
- Consistently featured in success meetings for diverse product lines, including Mutual Funds, debit/credit card sales, health insurance, CASA, and term deposits.
- Transformed the branch into a high-performing profit center through strategic cross-selling and revenue-enhancing products.
- Headed the branch portfolio expansion, significantly increasing CASA and fixed deposit holdings.
- Successfully launched two new branches in Kochi and Kothamangalam, exceeding management's business targets.
Branch Manager
KOTAK MAHINDRA BANK BANK LTD
Thiruvalla
12.2013 - 01.2015
- Earned the trust and support of the union staff, propelling the branch to unparalleled achievements.
- Drove branch book size growth in CASA and fixed deposits, meeting cross-sell targets.
- Streamlined branch operations, delivering outstanding customer service, and maintaining a zero-complaint record.
- Transformed the branch into a profit center, contributing to the company's success.
Branch Operations Manager
HDFC BANK LTD
Kochi
10.2007 - 05.2013
- Management of high-net-worth individuals (HNI) clientele, driving substantial revenue growth for the branch.
- Led and motivated a dynamic team of 25, which includes both operations, sales, and additional channel staff to achieve collective success.
- Ensured strict audit and compliance adherence, and effective resolution of Anti-Money Laundering (AML) concerns.
- Implemented proactive complaint management strategies, reducing escalations, and elevating customer satisfaction levels.
- Drove new account acquisitions and cross-sold third-party products, significantly contributing to the bank's financial performance.
- Reporting to senior management, with the authority to deal with Legal Enforcement Authorities.
- Optimized branch operations by eliminating non-profitable cash transactions, reallocating staff to bolster other critical functions.
Senior Officer
ICICI BANK LTD
Kochi
07.2004 - 09.2007
- Verified and authorized cash and cheques, handled CMS lodging and realization, and generated daily and monthly reports at ICICI Bank.
- Managed ATM replenishment and reconciliation, and served as the first level in complaint escalation.
- Championed Private Banking and Investment & Services sales initiatives.
Education
MBA - Finance and Marketing
BHARATHIYAR UNIVERSITY
Tamilnadu03-2002
Bachelor Of Commerce - Accountancy and Commerce
MAHATHMA GANDHI UNIVERSITY
Kerala03-2000
Skills
- Sales optimization and revenue growth
- Customer relationship management
- Operations and time management
- Compliance and regulations
- Team leadership and staff retention
Certification
- IRDA
- NISM
Accomplishments
- Qualified within 10th in the Super 60 club of PAN India Life Insurance contest in RBL Bank.
- Crossed Lakh business in Health Insurance for consecutive six months in RBL Bank.
- Qualified for overseas trips for LI business in IndusInd Bank.
- Awarded with key performer status in HDFC Bank Ltd in 09/01/09 and 09/01/10.
- One among the top 10 branch staff across India and No:01 in Kerala in ICICI Bank Champions Trophy (LI) 2006-2007.
- Rated No. 1 in elite V-Club monthly meets (Performer's club) in ICICI Bank through the entire stint.
- Won Banc assurance Excellence Oscar Award during Sampark 2006 for outstanding performance in Life Insurance business in ICICI Bank.
Languages
- English
- Hindi
- Tamil
- Malayalam
Activities
- President's scout
- Union Chairman in College
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
Branch Head
RBL BANK LTD
05.2021 - 02.2025
Branch Manager
BANDHAN BANK LTD
06.2020 - 05.2021
Branch Manager
INDUSIND BANK LTD
06.2015 - 05.2020
Branch Manager
KOTAK MAHINDRA BANK BANK LTD
12.2013 - 01.2015
Branch Operations Manager
HDFC BANK LTD
10.2007 - 05.2013
Senior Officer
ICICI BANK LTD
07.2004 - 09.2007
MBA - Finance and Marketing
BHARATHIYAR UNIVERSITY
Bachelor Of Commerce - Accountancy and Commerce
MAHATHMA GANDHI UNIVERSITY