Rajiv Memani, Chairman and Regional Managing Partner of EY India, has shaped global accounting and consulting through leadership roles at EY and significant community impact. With a distinguished career spanning over three decades and a strong commitment to education, entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability, Memani is a key industry figure.
Who is Rajiv Memani?
EY Chairman India
Rajiv Memani, born on January 28, 1968, is a prominent figure in the global accounting and consulting industry. As the Chairman and Regional Managing Partner of EY India, formerly known as Ernst & Young, Memani has made significant contributions to the firm and the industry at large. He also serves on EY’s Global Executive Board and chairs the Global Emerging Markets Committee, showcasing his influence on a global scale.
Early Life and Education
Rajiv Memani’s journey began in India, where he completed his schooling at Delhi Public School (DPS) R K Puram in 1985. His academic pursuits led him to Shri Ram College of Commerce (SRCC), Delhi University, where he earned a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) degree in 1988. His commitment to the field of accounting was further demonstrated by completing his Chartered Accountancy (CA) in 1991.
Career
Memani’s professional career with EY began in the mid-1980s, when he joined an India member-firm of EY Global. Over the next few years, he gained experience in tax and assurance practices and worked with the Corporate Finance practice at EY Singapore. By the late 1990s, he had established the Corporate Finance practice of EY in India. His leadership abilities were recognized in 2004 when he was appointed CEO and Regional Managing Partner of EY India.
In 2013, Memani’s influence extended globally with his appointment to the Global Executive Board of EY. As Chairman of the Global Emerging Markets Committee, he is responsible for connecting emerging markets with developed ones and recommending investment strategies for these regions.
Community Work
Beyond his professional achievements, Memani is deeply involved in community initiatives through the EY Foundation. Established in 2004, the Foundation focuses on education, rural women’s entrepreneurship, and environmental sustainability. Its flagship Scholarship program has supported over 10,000 underprivileged students, and its initiatives have helped increase the income of half a million rural women across approximately 2,000 villages. Additionally, the Foundation’s environmental efforts include afforestation drives and rainwater harvesting projects.
Memberships and Achievements
Rajiv Memani’s leadership extends into various prominent roles. He is the President Designate of the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) for 2023-24, contributing to discussions on tax and policy reforms. His involvement includes participation in high-level Government of India committees, such as the Ministry of Finance taskforce for a new Direct Tax Code in 2019. Memani has also been part of committees focused on simplifying the Income Tax Act and enhancing the Ministry of Railways’ accounting systems.
His contributions to the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) as the past President of its India Chapter, and his roles as President of the Board of Himjyoti School and a board member of the Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Sirmaur and KREA University, further highlight his commitment to both industry and education.
Rajiv Memani’s multifaceted career and community efforts illustrate his dedication to advancing both the accounting profession and social causes, making him a distinguished leader in his field.
