upGrad has announced the appointment of Mukesh Mundra as its new chief financial officer (CFO), succeeding Venkatesh Tarakkad, who has served in this role for nearly two years since March 2024. Mundra arrives with over 26 years of extensive experience in finance leadership across various sectors, including media, telecom, manufacturing, and consumer goods. As a chartered accountant and certified financial analyst, he possesses the qualifications necessary for this pivotal role.
Mundra transitions to upGrad from JioStar, where he was the head of the finance division. Prior to his tenure at JioStar, he spent over eight years as CFO at Viacom18 Media and has also worked with renowned firms such as Idea Cellular, Grasim Industries, and the Anand Rathi Group.
Mundra’s Role and Responsibilities at upGrad
At upGrad, Mundra will oversee financial planning, administrative operations, and business collaboration. He is tasked with corporate governance and supporting the company’s growth initiatives, particularly as upGrad expands its international presence.
Recent Changes in Company Leadership
Additionally, in anticipation of upGrad’s acquisition, Sumit Jain, co-founder of Unacademy and CEO of its test prep division, stepped down from his full-time operational role last week, with his last day in executive capacity set for June 30.
Ronnie Screwvala, co-founder and chairperson of upGrad, remarked on Mundra’s appointment, stating that his extensive financial knowledge and experience with large consumer-based companies make him a significant asset to the upGrad leadership team. His strategic insight into finance, governance, and business transformation is expected to be vital as the company continues to scale its global operations and reinforce its long-term growth strategy.
