Binod Shankar

A former CFO turned keynote speaker, executive coach and corporate trainer, Binod is known for his direct delivery, gripping stories and razor sharp thinking. His sessions are high energy, thought provoking and full of practical takeaways.

He is the CEO of Elevation FZE and co founder of Genesis Institute, which became the region’s leading CFA training provider and was later acquired by global education giant Kaplan. A Chartered Accountant and CFA Charterholder, Binod has also held senior leadership roles including Finance Director and Executive Director at one of the MENASA region’s largest property developers, where he helped raise the world’s largest convertible Islamic bond. But Binod’s career wasn’t always smooth sailing. After a string of academic rejections, he worked his way up through banking and Big Four audit roles, driven by an unshakable desire to grow. He passed all levels of the CFA on his first attempt, built and exited a successful business, and became a trusted voice in leadership and career transformation.

Previously, he served on the board of CFA Emirates Society and the Advisory Board of Heriot Watt University. He is also a regular commentator on CNBC and Bloomberg with over 230 live interviews.

Audiences love him for his honesty, clarity and challenge. He speaks to professionals who are ready to break through the barriers holding them back – whether that’s the comfort of a stable job, a toxic workplace culture or simply doing what’s expected.