BINOD SHANKAR
as seen on

genuine path, real growth
the corporate warrior
From the trenches of industrial banking to leading the finance of mega 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 skills, 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 not only built a respected business; he redefined corporate training and exam prep 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 mid and senior level professionals. With over 42 episodes, the podcast is a go-to for anyone looking to get practical career advice from those who’ve walked the walk in their professional lives.
the author
Binod’s book, Let’s Get Real, is a no-holds-barred guide to breaking free from career stagnation. It’s packed with actionable insights and real-world career advice that cuts through the noise and gets to the heart of what it takes to succeed without compromising your values.
media spotlight
Binod’s insights have been regularly featured on major media platforms such as CNBC Arabia, Asharq Business (in association with Bloomberg) and Gulf Business, where he breaks down complex topics and offers practical advice. Whether it’s financial markets, leadership issues, 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
CREATING CLARITY
Executive roles can be complex and isolating. Binod’s coaching creates a confidential space to challenge assumptions, examine difficult decisions, and confront blind spots. The work is direct and practical, helping leaders gain clarity, sharpen judgment, and move forward with purpose.
Leadership Workshops
THINK. DECIDE. LEAD.
Leadership is tested when pressure rises and the stakes are real. These workshops focus on how leaders think, decide, and communicate when systems, politics, and people collide. No theory. Just practical insight leaders can apply immediately inside complex organisations.
Keynotes
IDEAS THAT STAY WITH YOU
Drawing on three decades across boardrooms and entrepreneurship, Binod challenges comfortable assumptions about leadership, power, careers, and culture. His talks cut through jargon and surface the patterns shaping modern organisations, leaving audiences thinking differently long after the keynote ends.
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.