I currently lead the Credit vertical at Annapurna Finance. My journey with the organisation began in 2014 from IIFM, when I joined as a Management Associate during its early growth stage. Since then, I have played an active role in shaping our credit underwriting framework and building robust, scalable system-level processes from scratch. This journey has taken me across almost every corner of the country, giving me first hand insight into the transformative impact of financial inclusion at the grassroots. In my current role, I also oversee the Wholesale Lending vertical, where we extend financial support to small and mid-sized NBFCs, enabling their growth and widening their reach.
Location: Bhubaneswar, Odisha
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sourabh-kumar-a6187328
Q. Tell us about your School and College before you came to IIFM. How was your experience there? And how did IIFM happen?
A. I completed my schooling at BD Public School in Patna and graduated from Patna University. My interest in management education began during my school years, when I first heard about the CAT exam through media discussions around the Ranjit Don scam in Bihar. The conversations about the career opportunities and high salary packages associated with top B-schools sparked my motivation to pursue an MBA after graduation.
While exploring institutes, I discovered IIFM and was immediately drawn to its strong value proposition and excellent return on investment. I included it in my list of preferred colleges, but it was my visit to the campus for the GD/PI process that truly sealed the decision. The environment, the people, and the overall feel of the place resonated with me—and in that moment, I knew I wanted to pursue my MBA at IIFM.
Q. How has been your journey from IIFM so far?
A. My journey since graduating from IIFM has been both enriching and transformative. The extensive exposure to extracurricular activities during my time at IIFM played a significant role in building my confidence and shaping my approach to professional challenges. The institute encouraged us to step beyond the classroom, take initiative, collaborate, and lead—skills that have been invaluable in my career. In the sector I work in today, flexibility, perseverance, and the ability to adapt to diverse situations are essential. IIFM laid a strong foundation for all of these. The field-based learning, the rigorous academic environment, and the emphasis on holistic development prepared me to navigate complex situations with clarity and resilience. Overall, the journey from IIFM to where I am today has been a continuum of learning, growth, and meaningful experiences—and the values and confidence I gained at IIFM continue to guide me every day.
Q. What were some of the key milestones/learning in this journey that you would like to share with us?
A. A few key milestones have shaped my journey so far; will share them. One of the earliest was the opportunity to design and implement credit underwriting systems from the ground up. It pushed me to understand risk deeply and taught me how strong processes can anchor an organisation during rapid growth.
Another defining experience has been my extensive field exposure across the country. Meeting customers and teams on the ground gave me a real appreciation for the impact of financial inclusion and strengthened my ability to make practical, empathetic decisions.
Stepping into leadership roles—first in Credit and later expanding into Wholesale Lending—has been equally transformative. These responsibilities taught me how to balance strategy with execution, manage diverse teams, and build collaborative partnerships with small and mid-sized NBFCs.
Across all these milestones, the biggest learning has been the importance of perseverance and adaptability. This sector changes quickly, and every challenge has reinforced the value of staying flexible, grounded, and committed to long-term impact.
Q. How has been your experience in your current Organization? What all areas have you been working here?
A. I began my career with my current organization at a very early stage, which gave me the opportunity to design underwriting modules, develop processes and products, and manage teams from the ground up. I entered the microfinance sector soon after the RBI introduced its regulatory framework, and since then, I’ve witnessed several waves of sectoral disruption driven by policy changes. Navigating these shifts has allowed me to gain a deep, firsthand understanding of the market and its dynamics through every high and low.
Q. What is the most satisfying part in your career?
A. I would say the most fulfilling aspect of my career has been the confidence I’ve gained through the constant support of my mentors at Annapurna. Their guidance has empowered me to take key professional decisions, manage critical assignments, and grow as a leader. The trust they placed in me not only strengthened my capabilities but also played a defining role in shaping my entire career journey.
Q. Has your learning at IIFM helped in shaping how you approach your professional roles?
A. Yes, absolutely. The exposure I received at IIFM—especially through leadership roles such as serving as Treasurer and leading various committees—played a significant role in shaping my early leadership traits. These experiences strengthened my ability to collaborate, take responsibility, and manage diverse teams. They have been invaluable in my professional journey, particularly in leading teams comprising individuals from varied backgrounds and skill sets.
Q. What would be your advice to freshers and IIFM graduates who are looking to choose similar sectors/roles.
A. Dedication, perseverance, and commitment to your professional goals are essential. In today’s competitive environment, every career will face its share of challenges—difficult phases are inevitable. What truly matters is staying focused, consistent, and committed to your path. If you trust the process and continue putting in honest effort, the circumstances will eventually align, and your hard work will reflect in the results.
Q. What would be your advise for recent graduates who look for changing their sector after working for couple of years?
A. Shifting sectors can feel daunting, but it often turns into one of the most defining steps in a career. The key is clarity—knowing what you’re moving toward and why. Once that’s clear, start building the skills and industry understanding needed for the new space. Many of the competencies you’ve already developed will carry over, so use them to your advantage. The transition may take time, but with steady effort and a willingness to learn, it can open up far greater opportunities in the long run.
Q. Have you thought about going for higher studies post IIFM?
A. I haven’t actually pursued higher studies after IIFM. My focus has been on building my career and gaining practical, hands-on experience in the field. The exposure and learning I received at IIFM, combined with the opportunities I got early in my professional journey, allowed me to grow and take on increasing responsibilities, which I felt was the best way to strengthen my skills and expertise at that stage.
Q. What are your favorite memories during your IIFM days?
A. Mess ka khana, early-morning bike rides with my roommate Sireesh to catch the first serving of hot poha and chai, and of course, the thrill and energy of the iconic Kalpataru event—these remain some of my fondest and most memorable moments from IIFM.
Q. In hindsight, what was the biggest contribution or take away from IIFM that you think played a critical role in shaping you as an individual or professional?
A. For me, IIFM truly felt like a Home away from Home. The field trips, the diverse learning experiences, and the late-night conversations with friends on every possible topic—all of it together made me more versatile and nurtured my curiosity to keep learning and exploring.
Q. The best buddies / seniors /faculty at IIFM? Some memorable tidbits that you like to share?
A. My closest buddies were my roommate Sireesh, along with Nitish(Chapra ),Saurav, Anand, and our dear Guptaji(Sourabh G). They became more like family than friends. With them by my side, those two years felt less like a campus stint and more like a chapter filled with warmth, laughter, and memories I’ll carry for life. Time didn’t just pass—it flew, and it left behind moments I’ll always cherish.
Q. As an alumni, what’s your advice to freshers or those are joining IIFM to get best out of the 2 years there?
A. I would say that one should explore every opportunity that comes your way. Beyond academics, actively participate in conclaves and events, and make it a point to interact with industry experts whenever possible. These experiences provide valuable insights into the industry landscape and can greatly help you make informed decisions about your career path.
Q. What is your typical day at the work? And how does it look like while you are on a break?
A. A typical day involves overseeing credit operations, guiding my teams on underwriting and process improvements, monitoring the portfolio, and coordinating with other verticals .It’s a mix of strategic planning, decision-making, and hands-on problem-solving.
During breaks, I focus on recharging—reading, reflecting, and pursuing hobbies or spending time with family and friends. It helps me return to work refreshed and with a clear perspective.
Q. And how about weekends, hobbies, family and anything else you want to add?
A. In my leisure time, I love spending time with my son Paarth. Experiencing his childhood and watching him grow is truly the most joyful part of my life.
Q. Favorite Books, movies, authors?
A. Franky speaking I like reading books but nowadays not able to continue this hobby, My favorite movie is Swadesh , 3 idiots.
Q. IIFM is driven by alumni’s passion and commitments towards its goal. How would you like to contribute to IIFM or IIFM alumni, students? Your engagement with IIFM Placement or OT/SI?
A. In my organization, many fellow IIFM graduates are working alongside me as colleagues and junior team members. Through our regular interactions, we collectively strive to provide them with clarity and guidance about their career paths ahead.
Q. When was the last time you visited IIFM?
A. The last time I visited was back in 2018–19, when I was traveling to Bhopal for a professional assignment.
Q. Any suggestions on who you want to get profiled/interviewed here?
A. Mr. Anoop TP (CRO, Annapurna Finance Pvt Ltd),My batchmate Anand Gupta, Abhisuchi Srivastava (Our batch GS), Nitish Shankar.