Karnataka Bank , a prominent private sector lender, has announced the appointment of Raja B S as its new Chief Operating Officer (COO). The appointment, effective September 4, 2025, comes with a two-year contract and places Raja B S in the rank of Chief General Manager.

Career Overview

Raja B S brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having joined Karnataka Bank as a Probationary Officer in July 1990. Over his extensive 35-year career with the bank, he has held various key positions, showcasing his versatility and deep understanding of banking operations.

Career Progression

Throughout his tenure, Raja B S has demonstrated leadership in multiple roles:

• Branch Head at various locations including Hindupur, Turuvekere, Kakinada, Tadapatri, and Vishakapatnam
• Chief Manager at the Head Office, overseeing Vigilance and HR departments
• Regional Head for Hyderabad and Bengaluru
• Department Head for crucial units such as Planning and Development, New Business, and Credit Sales

His most recent position before this appointment was as General Manager, a role he assumed in March 2021. In this capacity, he managed several critical portfolios:

• Branch Banking Department
• HR and IR Department (as Chief Learning Officer)
• Credit Marketing Department
• Legal and Recovery Department
• Inspection and Audit (as Head of Internal Audit)
• IS Audit Department
• Operations Department

Transition to COO

In an interesting turn of events, Raja B S opted for voluntary retirement from his position as General Manager on September 3, 2025, only to assume the role of COO the very next day. This strategic move allows the bank to retain his extensive experience and expertise in a new capacity.

Role and Responsibilities

As the Chief Operating Officer, Raja B S is expected to play a crucial role in overseeing the bank's day-to-day operations, implementing strategic initiatives, and driving operational excellence. His appointment as a Senior Management Personnel underscores the importance of his role in shaping the bank's future direction.

The appointment of Raja B S as COO reflects Karnataka Bank's commitment to leveraging internal talent and ensuring continuity in its leadership. With his deep understanding of the bank's operations and culture, Raja B S is well-positioned to contribute significantly to Karnataka Bank's growth and operational efficiency in the coming years.

Karnataka Bank Ltd. has announced significant updates regarding its dividend payment and board composition.

Dividend Payment Details

The bank has fixed September 16, 2025 as the record date for dividend payment. This decision is subject to shareholder approval at the upcoming 101st Annual General Meeting (AGM) scheduled for September 23, 2025 at 11:30 AM. The AGM will be conducted via video conferencing. If approved, the dividend will be disbursed on or after September 29, 2025.

Re-appointment of Uma Shankar

The bank's Board of Directors has approved the re-appointment of Mrs. Uma Shankar as a Non-Executive Independent Director for an additional three-year term. Her new term is set to commence from November 1, 2025, following the conclusion of her current tenure on October 31, 2025, and will extend until October 31, 2028, subject to shareholder approval through a special resolution.

About Uma Shankar

Mrs. Uma Shankar brings a wealth of experience to the Karnataka Bank board:

• Former Executive Director of the Reserve Bank of India (RBI)
• Over 37 years of experience in the financial sector
• Core competencies include financial sector supervision, currency management, and foreign exchange
• Post-Graduate degree in English Literature
• Certified Associate of the Indian Institute of Bankers (CAIIB)
• Completed Executive Education at Columbia Business School, New York (2009 alumni)

Mrs. Shankar has been serving on the bank's board since November 1, 2020, contributing her extensive knowledge and expertise to the institution's governance.

Regulatory Compliance

In compliance with regulatory requirements, Karnataka Bank has confirmed that Mrs. Uma Shankar has not been debarred from holding the office of a Director by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) or any other authority.

These developments reflect Karnataka Bank's commitment to strong corporate governance and shareholder engagement as it moves forward with its strategic plans.