MAM
Deepesh Dhakad to lead tech at upGrad
MUMBAI: When upGrad said it was upgrading its tech game, it meant it literally. The skilling giant has appointed Deepesh Dhakad as its new chief product and technology officer (CPTO), effective October 2025, as it sharpens focus on innovation, scalability and next-gen learning experiences.
Based in Bengaluru, Dhakad will lead upGrad’s global product, design and technology ecosystem across its learner and enterprise verticals.
With nearly two decades of experience across powerhouses like Amazon, Flipkart, Unacademy and Games24x7, Dhakad has built and scaled digital platforms serving millions worldwide. His expertise lies in using AI-led design and data-driven experimentation to fuel growth and engagement.
“upGrad stands at a pivotal moment where technology is not just an enabler but the engine powering our next phase of growth,” said Dhakad. “Our goal is to design intelligent, AI-native systems that personalise learning journeys and deliver measurable results for individuals and enterprises.”
upGrad chief human resources officer Amit Mehta called the appointment “perfectly timed” as the company expands deeper into global markets. “Deepesh’s strong experience in building high-growth, tech-led ecosystems will further strengthen our ability to deliver outcome-driven learning at scale,” he said.
An alumnus of IIIT Allahabad and IIT Bombay’s Shailesh J. Mehta School of Management, Dhakad brings a rare blend of strategic vision, product intuition and technological depth, just what upGrad needs as it gears up for its next phase of global growth.
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Kotak Mahindra Bank appoints Ramesh Iyer to board
Veteran financier replaces Ashok Gulati, who retires in March
MUMBAI: Kotak Mahindra Bank has announced a change to its board of directors, with independent director Ashok Gulati set to retire at the end of his term on 5 March.
The company said it has appointed Ramesh Ganesh Iyer as an additional and independent director for a four-year term, effective 17 February, subject to shareholder approval.
Iyer brings more than four decades of experience in financial services. He spent much of his career at Mahindra & Mahindra Financial Services, where he served as vice chairman and managing director before taking on the role of president for the financial services sector and member of the group executive board at Mahindra & Mahindra. He retired from the group in April 2024.
During his tenure, Iyer was instrumental in expanding rural and inclusive finance initiatives, scaling the company’s assets and customer base. He also led the creation of subsidiaries in rural housing finance, insurance broking and asset management, and oversaw international joint ventures.
Iyer holds a commerce degree and a doctorate of letters, and currently serves on the boards of several listed and unlisted companies.
The board meeting approving the changes was held in Mumbai on February 17 between 6.30 pm and 6.50 pm.
