Ajay Kumar, Managing Director of Global Financial Services, has been named the Indian Weekender Businessperson of the Year 2024, a prestigious accolade that reflects his exceptional leadership, entrepreneurial acumen, and commitment to both business growth and community development. Kumar’s journey to success has been marked by dedication, resilience, and an unrelenting drive to build bridges between communities and provide financial empowerment to individuals and businesses.
Kumar, the visionary behind Global Financial Services, has played a pivotal role in transforming the company into a leading player in the financial advisory sector. Since its inception, the company has grown from a modest venture to a renowned financial advisory firm offering a wide range of services, including investment advisory, wealth management, insurance solutions, and mortgage broking. Kumar’s approach has been holistic; he has focused on offering tailored solutions that cater to the unique needs of each client, whether they are families looking for investment options or businesses seeking strategic financial planning.
His passion for financial literacy and empowerment has been evident throughout his career. Kumar has continually emphasised the importance of understanding clients' goals and objectives to offer personalised advice. Under his leadership, Global Financial Services has flourished by building trust, delivering value, and providing clients with a roadmap to financial security and growth. His ability to foresee market trends and adapt to changing economic conditions has been instrumental in the company’s success. Leadership and vision what sets Kumar apart is his relentless pursuit of excellence and his hands-on leadership style. He leads by example, ensuring that his team at Global Financial Services embodies the values of integrity, customer focus, and innovation. Kumar believes that the success of a company is not measured solely by its profits but by the positive impact it creates for its clients and the broader community.
Kumar has shown an unwavering commitment to fostering a strong and diverse team culture, recognising that an inclusive environment enhances creativity and problem-solving. By empowering his employees and encouraging professional development, he has cultivated a workforce that mirrors his passion for helping clients achieve their financial goals. This ethos of teamwork and continuous improvement has become a cornerstone of Global Financial Services' identity.
According to Kumar a defining moment for him was when he made a presentation to then Prime Minister John Key in which he made suggestions to optimise the country’s Kiwisaver scheme. Mr Key commended him for the suggestions but what surprised Kumar was that some of those were implemented in the next national budget.
Community engagement and legacy beyond his business endeavours, Ajay Kumar is deeply involved in the community. He has been an advocate for financial literacy, participating in numerous initiatives aimed at educating individuals about financial planning, investment strategies, and wealth creation.
Kumar understands the significance of giving back to society, particularly to the Indian and South Asian communities in New Zealand. He regularly supports charitable organisations, community events, and educational programmes, reinforcing his belief that financial knowledge is key to improving lives.
For Kumar, this award is not just a personal achievement; it represents the hard work and collaboration of his team at Global Financial Services. It is a milestone that underscores his belief in making a positive difference through business and the importance of community- focused leadership. Ajay Kumar’s journey is a story of inspiration and impact, and his legacy as an entrepreneur and community advocate is set to leave a lasting mark on New Zealand’s business landscape.