Who Is binod shankar?
Binod is more than just an executive coach—he’s a no-nonsense, results-driven catalyst for success. With leadership roles at KPMG, EY, and as a Finance Director at Nakheel, Binod brings deep insight into the corporate world. He didn’t just climb the corporate ladder—he co-founded Genesis Institute, turning it into the leading CFA prep provider in the Middle East and Africa before it was acquired by Kaplan Inc, the training and publishing giant.
His coaching blends practical wisdom with a no-nonsense, straightforward approach that gets real results.
as seen on
genuine path, real growth
the corporate warrior
From the trenches of industrial banking to leading major projects like the Palm Islands in Dubai, Binod’s journey shows that real growth comes from taking on big challenges and owning the outcome. Whether you’re striving to elevate your leadership, sharpen your decision-making, or take your career to the next level, Binod’s experience will help you rise to the occasion, guiding you through the complexities of leadership and growth with confidence and purpose.
The entrepreneur
In 2009, Binod took the leap from corporate life to entrepreneurship, co-founding Genesis Institute. He didn’t just build a business; he redefined financial training in the region, making it remarkably engaging and effective. By 2017, Kaplan Inc. recognized the impact and quality of the brand that Binod had created and acquired Genesis.
the adventurer
Binod doesn’t just talk about pushing limits—he lives it. Whether it’s running marathons, summiting mountains like Elbrus and Kilimanjaro, or cycling gruelling high altitude routes like Manali to Leh, Binod’s adventures reflect his relentless drive. He’s not afraid to face challenges head-on, and he brings that same energy to his coaching.
the podcast host
In 2019, Binod launched The Real Finance Mentor podcast to dive deep into the careers of senior professionals. With over 42 episodes and counting. The podcast is a go-to for anyone looking to get real insights from those who’ve walked the walk in their professional lives.
the author
Binod’s book, Let’s Get Real, isn’t just another self-help book—it’s a no-holds-barred guide to breaking free from career stagnation. It’s packed with actionable insights and real-world advice that cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what it takes to succeed.
media spotlight
Binod’s insights have been regularly featured on major media platforms such as CNBC, Bloomberg and Gulf Business, where he breaks down complex topics into practical advice. Whether it’s finance, leadership, or career development, Binod makes it accessible and actionable, helping viewers turn insights into results.
Path to success
Mediocre high school result, fails engineering entrance.
1985
Mediocre high school result, fails engineering entrance.
Poor Bachelor’s grades, fails MBA entrance.
1988
Poor Bachelor’s grades, fails MBA entrance.
Clears MBA entrance, fails interview.
1989
Clears MBA entrance, fails interview.
Clears the tough CA exams in the first attempt.
1992
Clears the tough CA exams in the first attempt.
Deputy Manager, reporting directly to the CEO.
1995
Deputy Manager, reporting directly to the CEO.
Two promotions in a year to Supervisor.
2002
Two promotions in a year to Supervisor.
Writes a regular column in a leading regional publication.
2003
Writes a regular column in a leading regional publication.
Passes all levels of the CFA program in first attempts. Earns charter.
2005
Passes all levels of the CFA program in first attempts. Earns charter.
Double promotion to Finance Director of the largest property development company in the MENASA region.
2006
Double promotion to Finance Director of the largest property development company in the MENASA region.
Oversees a $10 billion property portfolio across the MENASA region.
2009
Oversees a $10 billion property portfolio across the MENASA region.
Quits corporate life, co founds and runs Genesis Institute and becomes a top CFA prep trainer.
2009
Quits corporate life, co founds and runs Genesis Institute and becomes a top CFA prep trainer.
Invited by CNBC to be a regular guest- 150 live interviews and counting.
2014
Invited by CNBC to be a regular guest- 150 live interviews and counting.
Kaplan Inc (the training and publishing giant) acquires Genesis.
2017
Kaplan Inc (the training and publishing giant) acquires Genesis.
Earns the ILM Level 7 qualification in coaching and mentoring from the UK.
2018
Earns the ILM Level 7 qualification in coaching and mentoring from the UK.
Elected to the board of CFA Emirates Society.
2019
Elected to the board of CFA Emirates Society.
Invited by Bloomberg to be a regular guest- 84 live interviews and counting.
2022
Invited by Bloomberg to be a regular guest- 84 live interviews and counting.
On the Advisory Board of Heriot Watt University.
2022
On the Advisory Board of Heriot Watt University.
Launch of 'Let’s Get Real', available online and in major bookstores.
2023
Launch of 'Let’s Get Real', available online and in major bookstores.
services
find your path to success
executive coaching:
Unstuck, Unstoppable
Whether clients are stuck in old habits, their heads, or their careers, Binod asks the critical questions that create maximum impact. From transforming managers into leaders to guiding executives into entrepreneurship, his coaching is about provoking thought, triggering action and holding clients accountable to achieve meaningful progress.
Training:
Finance Without the Fear
For decades, Binod has helped professionals demystify finance by making it clear, practical, and relevant. His training sessions focus on real-life examples, interactive learning, and conceptual clarity—all delivered with a dash of humour to ensure the material is both accessible and impactful.
Keynote Speaking:
Real Insights, Lasting Impact
Binod’s keynotes draw from 30 years of experience in corporate leadership and entrepreneurship. As an extreme adventurer—cyclist and mountaineer—he’s also built both business and personal brands. Binod masterfully weaves together his diverse experiences, delivering insights with humour, frankness, and a relatable, highly engaging style.
Make it Happen
Redefine your limits, lift the ceiling, and elevate your game with Binod. Together, you’ll shatter old patterns and ignite purposeful growth through decisive action.