Kerala-based South Indian Bank has appointed seasoned central banker Jose Joseph Kattoor as its non-executive part-time chairman, reinforcing its governance framework at a time when the lender is sharpening its long-term strategy.
The appointment, effective March 23, is for a three-year term and follows approval from the Reserve Bank of India. Kattoor, who has been serving as an independent director on the bank’s board since July 18, 2024, succeeds V J Kurian, whose tenure has ended.
In his new role, Kattoor is expected to work closely with the board and senior management to further strengthen governance standards and support the bank’s strategic direction. The Thrissur-headquartered lender said the move aligns with its focus on stability, regulatory compliance and sustained growth.
With more than three decades of experience as a central banker, Kattoor served the RBI from 1991 until his retirement in 2023. As an executive director of the RBI, he handled key portfolios including enforcement, corporate strategy, currency management and human resources, giving him deep regulatory and operational expertise.
The appointment comes as South Indian Bank continues its efforts to consolidate gains from its recent turnaround initiatives, with a sharper emphasis on governance, asset quality and profitability.