RBI Approves R. Vijay Anandh as MD & CEO of City Union Bank

RBI Approves R. Vijay Anandh as MD & CEO of City Union Bank

The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has approved the appointment of Shri R. Vijay Anandh as the Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD & CEO) of City Union Bank Limited, marking a key leadership transition at the century‑old private sector lender. The approval comes ahead of the bank’s upcoming board and shareholder processes and underscores the regulator’s role in endorsing senior executive leadership in Indian banks. 

Anandh’s appointment is expected to take effect from May 1, 2026, for an initial tenure of three years, subject to customary approvals by the bank’s shareholders at a general meeting. The move cements succession planning at one of India’s established regional banks, reflecting continuity from within the organisation’s leadership ranks.

Leadership Continuity and Strategic Direction

Currently serving as an Executive Director at City Union Bank, R. Vijay Anandh brings to the role detailed institutional knowledge and experience in banking operations. His elevation to MD & CEO follows RBI’s formal clearance, a regulatory step that ensures that senior management appointments align with governance standards and supervisory expectations within India’s banking framework. 

The RBI’s approval reflects the central bank’s confidence in Anandh’s capabilities to lead City Union Bank through a period of strategic initiatives, competitive pressures, and evolving regulatory requirements. His tenure will begin as the bank navigates broader industry challenges, including digital transformation, asset quality management, and customer‑centric growth strategies.

R. Vijay Anandh’s Profile and Experience

Anandh’s career spans well over two decades in banking, with experience across credit, risk management, portfolio oversight, and business strategy. Prior to joining City Union Bank as Executive President, he held senior roles in retail asset management, credit operations, and risk frameworks at other major private banks, positioning him with a blend of operational and strategic leadership qualities suited for the MD & CEO position. 

His internal experience within City Union Bank equips him with an understanding of the institution’s balance sheet dynamics, customer segments, and evolving business priorities, allowing for continuity in leadership ethos and growth momentum.

Regulatory and Corporate Governance Context

Under RBI norms, appointments to the MD & CEO position in Indian banks require prior regulatory approval, followed by shareholder endorsement. Anandh’s approval precedes the formal shareholder meeting where his appointment and terms of service will be voted on by the bank’s investors.

The RBI’s oversight is designed to ensure that banking leadership meets standards of competence, integrity, and stewardship expected in the sector, particularly in the context of financial stability and stakeholder confidence.

Outlook for City Union Bank

With Anandh slated to assume leadership in 2026, City Union Bank is positioned for a phase of measured strategic execution, focusing on retail and corporate lending growth, digital service innovation, and disciplined risk management. The appointment is expected to reassure investors and clients alike regarding leadership continuity and operational stability.

As banks in India navigate competitive and regulatory challenges, senior leadership transitions such as this are critical signals of governance rigour and long‑term strategic planning.