Rajesh Panthri is a distinguished Vice President of Advanced Analytics & Insights at a leading Wealth Management firm in USA. He is one of the ‘100 Most Influential AI Leaders’ in USA with a remarkable career spanning over 18 years in Analytics and Consulting. Rajesh holds an international MBA from Australia and boasts a vast array of Data Science credentials from prestigious institutions such as Harvard Business School.
In his current role at, Rajesh leads robust global analytics and insights teams, focusing on key Wealth Management businesses. His strategic approach involves cross-product area collaboration with over 50+ direct stakeholders, fostering agile adoption across five dynamic pods, and driving forward-thinking AI initiatives tailored to financial services.
Recently, in an exclusive interview with Digital First Magazine, Rajesh shared his professional trajectory, insights on the future role of AI and machine learning in financial services, significant career milestones, favorite quote, future plans, words of wisdom, and much more. The following excerpts are taken from the interview.
Hi Rajesh. Please tell us about your background and areas of expertise.
I am a seasoned professional with 18 years of experience in Analytics and Consulting. I hold a Global MBA from the SP Jain School of Global Business, Australia and a diploma in Financial Planning. My career trajectory spans prestigious firms such as Accenture Consulting, Tiger Analytics, Concentrix, HSBC, Genpact, and a leading Wealth Management firm in USA, where I made significant impact on business strategy, data-driven decision-making, and technological transformation in the Banking and Financial Services industry.
I have deep expertise in scoping, leading, and executing analytics and consulting solutions, often managing multiple projects and teams concurrently. My roles have consistently involved delivering transformational roadmaps, leading strategic initiatives, and driving business outcomes. I have been leading cross-functional teams, where I am focused on Wealth Management, Digital Transformation, and Artificial Intelligence-driven strategic initiatives.
I have a strong background in training and upskilling teams, have trained hundreds of resources on consulting frameworks, analytics tools, and techniques. I am well versed with programming languages, tools, and analytics methodologies, including SAS, Python, Tableau, and Snowflake and I have over 20 certifications in Digital Analytics, Machine Learning, Deep Neural Networks.
I was recently nominated as ‘Top 100 AI Leaders’ in USA, a recognition by AIM Research.
What do you love the most about your current role?
What I love most about my role in analytics is the ability to transform complex data (structured and unstructured both) into powerful narratives that drive meaningful change. It’s incredibly satisfying to see how data-driven insights can improve decision-making, optimize processes, and open new opportunities for growth and customer experience improvement. Whether it’s identifying trends, forecasting future outcomes, or solving intricate business problems, analytics provides a way to turn uncertainty into clarity.
Another aspect that I enjoy is the constant evolution within this field. I started my analytics journey with excel data analysis and simple slicing and dicing with pivot tables, a lot has changed in last 18 years. I did base SAS and Advanced SAS certification in early phase of my career and was very proud of that. Quite soon SAS became old school and industry adopted other programming languages such as R and Python with open arms. So this industry sits at the intersection of technology, business, and innovation, which means there’s always something new to explore—whether it’s emerging tools, machine learning techniques, or advancements in data visualization. This keeps the work intellectually stimulating and continuously challenging.
I think collaboration is another highlight for me. Working with cross-functional teams, from Head of Businesses to engineers, allows me to blend diverse perspectives into the analytical process. It’s rewarding to contribute to a shared goal and witness how analytics can impact various parts of an organization, from improving customer experiences to driving strategic initiatives.
Finally, the measurable impact of data-driven decisions makes this role truly fulfilling. Being able to quantify how analytics can improve outcomes, reduce costs, or enhance efficiency is a powerful motivator, and it adds a tangible sense of accomplishment to the work.
What role do you see AI and machine learning playing in the future of financial services?
Earlier this year, I was invited to Toronto as an opening keynote speaker for a Financial Services conference. I have been very positive on role of AI as an enabler. As AI continues to evolve, it’s role in financial services will expand beyond the foundational areas of automation, personalization, and risk management. Soon, AI will likely be integral to enhancing real-time financial monitoring and forecasting, enabling institutions to respond swiftly to market shifts, regulatory changes, and economic fluctuations.
Blockchain and AI are expected to converge in the financial ecosystem, enhancing security, transparency, and trust in transactions. AI can optimize blockchain networks by improving transaction speeds, reducing energy consumption, and identifying fraud or anomalies in real time. This combination will be crucial in facilitating the growth of decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, which are gaining momentum as alternatives to traditional financial systems.
AI will also drive innovations in regulatory technology (RegTech), helping financial institutions stay compliant with ever-changing regulations. Machine learning algorithms can analyze and interpret vast amounts of regulatory data, flagging potential compliance issues and automating the reporting process. This will not only reduce the cost of compliance but also mitigate the risk of regulatory breaches, which can be costly both financially and reputationally.
Finally, I also think that AI’s role in enhancing cybersecurity cannot be overstated. In a recent data breach, 2.9 billion personal records including Social Security numbers, names, addresses, email addresses and phone numbers were stolen. As financial services become increasingly digital, the threat landscape grows more complex. AI and machine learning will be essential in identifying and responding to cyber threats, protecting sensitive financial data, and ensuring the integrity of financial systems. By leveraging advanced algorithms, financial institutions can detect unusual patterns of behavior, prevent fraud in real-time, and continuously adapt to evolving cyber risks.
In summary, AI and machine learning are not just tools for efficiency—they are catalysts for profound innovation in financial services. They will redefine how financial institutions operate, how customers interact with their finances, and how the industry evolves to meet the demands of a digital, data-driven future.
How do you stay current with emerging trends and technologies in analytics, and what skills do you look for in your team members?
I stay up to date by reading industry blogs, research papers, and publications from sources such as Gartner, McKinsey, and Harvard Business Review. I have recently started attending industry conferences, webinars, and meetups that allow me to stay informed about the latest advancements while networking with other professionals. I also follow thought leaders and participate in discussions on platforms like LinkedIn. Keeping an eye on the latest case studies and success stories helps me understand how new technologies are being applied in real-world scenarios.
The field of analytics is constantly evolving, so I look for people who are naturally curious and eager to learn. Adaptability and the willingness to embrace new technologies and methodologies are crucial for staying relevant in this fast-paced industry. I am not a big fan of people who show up with Data Scientists tags and AI concepts but lack the ability to translate complex data insights into clear, actionable recommendations. I prioritize candidates who can communicate effectively with both technical and non-technical stakeholders, ensuring that insights drive the real impact.
What has been your most career-defining moment that you are proud of?
The most career defining moment for me was taking a break from career and going for international MBA in 2017.I did my MBA in Marketing from SP Jain Global School of Business and as part of the program I studied in 3 different continents, starting from Singapore and ending the final lag in Dubai. Pursuing that MBA went beyond academic learning; it was a transformative experience enriched by international exposure, cultural diversity, and the opportunity to meet people from various backgrounds. This journey offered me invaluable insights and a broader perspective that has been instrumental in shaping my professional and personal development.
Moreover, the relationships formed during my MBA have become one of the most enduring takeaways. Meeting new people, each bringing their unique ideas and aspirations, has expanded my professional network and provided me with friendships that last a lifetime.
The holistic experience of an international MBA—spanning academic, cultural, and networking opportunities—has profoundly impacted my approach to leadership and business. It taught me the importance of cultural competence, global thinking, and building strong, diverse teams. These experiences have equipped me to tackle challenges more creatively and lead more effectively in a global business environment.
If you could have a one-hour meeting with someone famous who is alive, who would it be and why?
I would choose to meet with Kevin O’Leary, a renowned entrepreneur, investor, and television personality, best known for his role on the TV show “Shark Tank.” Kevin O’Leary’s reputation for sharp business acumen and his straightforward, often tough approach to investment advice make him an intriguing figure in the world of entrepreneurship and finance. I think his frank and candid style of communication would make for a deeply engaging conversation. His insights into the realities of entrepreneurship, including the challenges and pitfalls that are often not discussed in business schools, would be extremely beneficial. Hearing about his personal journey, the obstacles he’s overcome, and the lessons learned along the way would not only be inspiring but also provide practical tips for resilience and perseverance in the face of adversity. This conversation would certainly be packed with actionable advice, grounded in decades of successful, real-world business experience.
The opportunity to discuss and debate business strategies, investment philosophies, and the future of technology and global markets with Kevin O’Leary would be a truly enriching experience.
Is there a particular person you are grateful for who helped get you to where you are?
I am profoundly grateful to my spouse, Aditi Sharma, who has been an unwavering source of support and encouragement throughout my career, especially during pivotal moments such as my decision to pursue an international MBA. Her support was not just emotional but involved significant personal sacrifices, demonstrating a deep commitment to my goals and our shared future.
When the opportunity to study abroad presented itself, it required both of us to make substantial adjustments. My wife not only encouraged me to seize this chance but also took on greater responsibilities at home, which allowed me to focus fully on my studies. This often meant putting her own career and personal aspirations on hold, a sacrifice that was not made lightly. Her belief in my potential and her willingness to prioritize my professional growth over immediate personal comforts provided me with the freedom and peace of mind needed to immerse myself completely in the demanding environment of an international MBA program.
My wife’s support didn’t just stop at logistics and emotional encouragement; she was also instrumental in decision-making processes, offering insights and advice on critical choices that shaped my career path. Her unselfishness and collaborative spirit have been foundational to my achievements, making her not just a partner at home but a true partner in every sense of my professional journey. This partnership has been one of the most enriching and empowering aspects of my life, for which I am deeply grateful.
How do you keep your mind healthy and stay resilient? And how do you motivate your team?
I firmly believe that ensuring enough sleep is vital for cognitive function and emotional regulation. I don’t exercise a lot, but I ensure walking 2-3 miles a day. It helps reduce stress and anxiety.
For me, there are 2 ways of motivating the team
The 1st one is through open communication. Maintaining open lines of communication ensures that team members feel heard and valued, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility.
And the 2nd one is empowerment. Giving team members autonomy in their roles encourages innovation and engagement, as they feel more in control of the outcomes.
What is your favorite quote?
I really love the quote “Without data, you’re just another person with an opinion.” by W. Edwards Deming emphasizes the critical role of data in forming informed decisions and insights, distinguishing them from mere conjectures or subjective viewpoints.
Where do you see yourself in the next 5 years?
In the next five years, I envision continuing to grow and evolve in the field of technology and AI, aiming to take on more strategic roles in my current organization, that blend technical expertise with leadership responsibilities. I will continue focusing on innovative uses of AI to solve real-world problems and drive meaningful impact. Additionally, I aim to deepen my knowledge and expertise in emerging technologies and stay at the forefront of industry advancements. On a personal development front, I hope to further enhance my skills in communication and leadership, enabling me to effectively mentor others and contribute to the growth of a vibrant, inclusive tech community.
Overall, the next five years will be about amplification—amplifying my impact, amplifying my learning, and amplifying my contributions to the fields I’m passionate about.
What advice would you give to someone looking to move into a leadership role in advanced analytics?
I firmly believe that leadership is a multifaceted discipline that requires a combination of skills, behaviors, and attitudes to be effective. Irrespective of industry you select, the fundamentals remain the same. I would advise to primarily focus on vision and communication.
Effective leaders have a clear vision of what they want to achieve. They can articulate this vision in a way that is compelling and motivates others to follow. Good leaders are excellent communicators. If you want to be an effective leader, you must convey ideas clearly, listen effectively, and adjust your communication style to suit the audience. This also includes being able to effectively negotiate and resolve conflicts.