Paytm Appoints Ramana Kumar as CEO of Middle East Business

Paytm (One97 Communications Limited), a leader in India’s payments and financial services sector, has announced the appointment of Mr. Ramana Kumar as Chief Executive Officer for its Middle East operations. The move is a strategic step in Paytm’s efforts to expand its digital payments footprint internationally, starting with the rapidly growing markets of the UAE and broader Middle East.

Highlights of the Appointment

1. Leadership Background and Experience

• Ramana Kumar brings over two decades of leadership in fintech, payments, and banking.
• Previously served as founding CEO of Magnati, a prominent UAE-based payments firm under First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB).
• Held senior roles at FAB, including EVP overseeing payments and digital banking.
• Formerly Managing Director and Head of Global Transaction Banking at NBAD.
• Known for launching secure, scalable, and innovative digital payment solutions.

2. Role and Strategic Focus at Paytm

• Will lead Paytm’s Middle East operations from the UAE.
• Tasked with developing localized digital payment solutions tailored to regional needs.
• Will leverage Paytm’s Indian tech stack—Soundbox, QR codes, and mobile payment solutions.
• Expected to strengthen Paytm’s role in advancing the digital payments ecosystem in the Middle East.

3. Executive Perspectives

• Vijay Shekhar Sharma, Founder & CEO, Paytm: Welcomed Kumar and emphasized building strong regional leadership to power global expansion.
• Ramana Kumar, CEO – Middle East: Expressed enthusiasm to drive innovation, collaborate with regulators, and introduce impactful fintech solutions to the region.

4. Paytm’s Global Expansion Strategy

• Focused on exporting its technology-driven financial services model to key global markets.
• The Middle East marks a significant milestone in Paytm’s international journey.
• Company anticipates long-term growth and meaningful results from select overseas markets in the coming years.

Ramana Kumar’s appointment signals Paytm’s strong commitment to international expansion, particularly in high-potential regions like the Middle East. With a proven leader at the helm and a robust digital payment platform, Paytm is poised to make a lasting impact on the region’s financial services landscape.