CEO Insights Magazine

In any industry, if innovation is the engine, accounting and finance can be considered the gearbox that helps organizations achieve the optimum pace of growth at the right times. Successful modern-day finance leaders contribute directly to the company's growth. Embracing this novel approach, Pramod Nambiar, a finance industry veteran, is redefining how finance can be a true business enabler driving growth.

A Chartered Accountant from the Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and a CPA (Australia), Pramod brings rich global experience, having held senior finance leadership roles as well as managerial positions at major multinationals. What sets him apart is his belief that finance offers a unique lens through which to view the business, as an enabler to make the right business decisions. With expertise in Oracle Fusion Cloud, NetSuite, MS Dynamics, and PeopleSoft, Pramod leads group-wide financial planning, budgeting, IFRS compliance, cash flow management, capital allocation, and automation integration in financial processes. He works closely with senior leadership and investors, supporting strategic decisions and developing future finance talent. In this exclusive interview, Pramod, shares how he is helping finance evolve from a roadblock to a growth enabler.

What is the motivation that fuels your daily routine?

Even to this day, I feel the same energy as I did when I started as a young CA in 2006. My inspiration stems from a constant desire to learn and the excitement of being part of a dynamic business environment. While I lead in finance, I make it a point to expand my understanding beyond numbers and deepen my knowledge of the markets and industries where I operate.

Throughout my career, I have successfully transitioned across multiple industries, driven by the motivation to truly understand the business dynamics, not just the financials. Real success, in my view, is not just about economic achievements but about contributing to broader business success. The continuous learning and the pursuit of doing better, both individually and together as a team keeps me motivated every day. How do you ensure financial strategies support the organization's long-term and short-term business objectives? Usually, in business, I have often noticed that finance is seen as the function that says ‘no’ to almost everything. While this perception exists, I personally believe finance should be viewed as a vital line of defense in a company’s success. Finance is not about rejecting ideas outright; it is about viewing every part of the business as an internal client and contributing through critical thinking by exploring the unexplored approach.

The role of finance is to help achieve overall business objectives, offering multi-dimensional solutions rather than simply presenting numbers. True value comes from enabling the business by providing insights, alternatives, and guidance to move forward. Personally, I see success in finance  the motivation to truly understand the business dynamics, not just the financials. Real success, in my view, is not just about economic achievements but about contributing to broader business success. The continuous learning and the pursuit of doing better, both individually and together as a team keeps me motivated every day.

How do you ensure financial strategies support the organization's long-term and short-term business objectives?

Usually, in business, I have often noticed that finance is seen as the function that says ‘no’ to almost everything. While this perception exists, I as a means to learn the business as a whole, and I encourage my team to do the same. So we are not just focused on accounting tasks, but on delivering solutions that strengthen the business.

Could you describe your leadership style?

I have worked across various industries, experienced different team structures, and operated in diverse environments, some shaped by industry norms and others by company culture. I have found that getting the best from a team starts with having the right people in the right roles who enjoy doing their work. Then comes mentoring: giving them enough freedom while keeping them motivated to learn, where people feel that they are growing and not stuck in repetitive tasks that do not add value.

I believe inquisitiveness is key, as it sparks excitement, critical thinking, and deeper insights. A strong team does not just process data, it brings fresh perspectives and valuable information. I encourage this mind set by pushing, not to overwhelm, but to help people realize their full potential. When team members are engaged and curious, they go beyond the basics, adding meaningful analytics and insights that strengthen the entire group.

What are your thoughts on incorporating Gen Z into the workforce?

Since 2014, I have worked within flat organizational structures and led teams that operate remotely with a high degree of autonomy. In my experience, Gen Z naturally fits this model, not just because of their perceived value of freedom, but because business itself has transformed. Today’s hyper-connected world, powered by the internet, enables people to work from anywhere and collaborate globally. This flexibility succeeds when individuals are truly engaged and take ownership of their work rather than needing to be chased for results. I have led teams across 17–18 countries, many of whom I have never met in person, yet we have built strong relationships and consistently delivered. Ultimately, it is the responsibility and ownership that drives success.

How do you keep informed about financial regulations and compliance standards?

I am a member of ICAI, CPA Australia, few other professional institutes, and I hold certifications from various organizations. I am also associated with several bodies that publish professional content. I consistently prioritize setting aside 10–20 percent of my time for learning and updating my knowledge, either through formal CPE programs or self-study. No matter how exhausting the day might be, I find it relaxing to read something technical, as it lets me shift focus and explore new topics beyond my daily work. Though continuous learning may not bring immediate results, it adds significant value over time. Staying updated consistently, even in small steps, has definitely helped me grow professionally over these 19 years. 

What is the future roadmap that you have envisioned?

I do not engage in too much personal planning. I welcome exciting opportunities, meaningful challenges or both. As change is inevitable, and progress happens in unexpected ways, I do not set rigid boundaries by defining where exactly I should be in a year or two. I believe staying open to possibilities often leads to better outcomes than anything I could have planned. Even in the past, I never set out with a timeline like ‘I must become a CFO in 15 years.’ It was not about hitting a specific target on a specific day but about being prepared whenever the opportunity came. That is how I approach growth, by staying ready rather than locked into a fixed plan. 

What is your advice to aspiring financial leaders?

I believe that the key to success is to be consistent. There is no magic or formula for success, whether in business, life, or your career. The small things you do consistently over the years shape lasting habits and often inspire those around you. Success neither comes overnight nor should it be your daily focus. There will be wins, setbacks, and even failures along the way, but over time, the overall journey leads to success. Staying consistent and honest with yourself in pursuing your goals is what truly matters. Everyone’s path and learning experience are unique, so focus on your own growth. Keep learning, stay committed, and let consistency guide you.

Pramod Nambiar, CFO , Portfolio Companies Of A Pe

With nearly two decades of broad experience across various finance functions, Pramod brings rich global experience, having held senior finance leadership roles at major multinationals.

Hobbies: Hiking, sports, and travel. Favourite Travel Destination: Anywhere in the mountains. Favourite Book: Nonfiction. Favourite Cuisine: Arabic, Japanese, and Italian.