Page 200 - A Banker Down the Rabbit Hole

57. Chairman's visit

I t was the month of October and our new Chairman of the Bank

had just joined at Head office. He called a meeting to review the
major decisions taken during last 3 months. One of the important
decisions taken was overseas posting of 15 Managers in 6 overseas
branches. Posting a Manager overseas was considered an expensive
proposition for the bank looking to salary and perks of Managers at
overseas centers.

The Chairman asked General Manager (Personnel) whether the number
of vacancies was estimated properly or not. The GM paused to reply and
the Chairman took it as hesitation and doubted the decision. He ordered
to hold everyone from flying from India till vacancies are re-assessed by
him. He was told that about a third of the selected ones have already
been relieved and joined their country of posting. He told then to hold
the remaining. So, those who had not been relieved by September end
were put on hold.

I had just joined Hong Kong centre along with two more on last day of
September. I learnt about this episode and felt a sense of relief as I had
got this opportunity after struggling a lot and ultimately joined before
any further impediments unfolding on the way. The Chairman was
reported to be of impeccable track record of performance with integrity
of high order in the bank from where he was moved. He was successful
in delivering the message down the line that non-performance and
corrupt practices in whatever cadre were not acceptable any more. Bank
witnessed many resignations at all levels in quick succession. Wherever
he went, he left good and bad memories both behind him.

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