A Journey of Purpose, Leadership, and Lasting Impact
NV Paulose, Chairman, Global TV +91 98441 82044
“The story of Dr. Kurian P. Abraham is a powerful testament to choosing purpose over comfort. I had the privilege of interacting with him during his time as a General Manager at Corporation Bank and twice more after his retirement—once as the CEO of a prominent NBFC and then as the Promoter MD of a new finance company. There is a singular, ‘remarkable’ difference in this person—a profound dedication to service that defines his extraordinary four-decade career.”
A Courageous Start: Choosing People over Position
At a time when a secure government job was the ultimate aspiration for many, Dr. Kurian made a decision that surprised his peers. He resigned from a Gazetted Officer’s post in the Government to join Corporation Bank, then a newly nationalized and lesser-known institution. For him, this wasn’t a risk; it was a moment of clarity. He believed his purpose lay in a life that allowed him to work closely with people and effect meaningful change. This courageous first step set the course for a 44-year journey that touched countless lives.
A Rise Defined by Dedication and Innovation
His ascent within Corporation Bank was organic and swift, fueled purely by the quality and impact of his work. His dedication was quickly recognized, leading to an early assignment as a branch head in only his fourth year—a rare distinction at the time.
Groundbreaking Leadership in Banking
Dr. Kurian’s tenure was marked by a constant pursuit of innovation and empowerment. He didn’t just manage; he pioneered.
- He was the first to install an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) across the entire Corporation Bank network.
- He initiated the single-window system in the branches he served, streamlining customer experience.
- He actively encouraged agricultural lending in Kerala post-nationalization, supporting the grassroots economy.
For Dr. Kurian, banking was not merely a transaction; it was a tool for making life easier for people. This philosophy ensured business grew exponentially under his command, earning him membership in the revered Chairman’s Club multiple times.
Inauguration of TRUECARE NIDHI LTD
Mentorship and Empowerment
What truly set him apart was his leadership style. He remained deeply grounded despite his climb to the highest levels of a public sector bank. He fostered a culture of trust, consistently encouraging new ideas and fresh thinking.
Lifting others up and giving them space to promote themselves is his style, contrary to the work culture of the present times.”
His presence inherently imbued confidence—staff felt motivated because he trusted their abilities, and customers felt valued because he respected their needs.
A Heart for Community: Service Beyond the Balance Sheet
Dr. Kurian’s commitment extended far beyond banking metrics. His life demonstrates a powerful empathy that translated into tangible community improvements.
- Village Upliftment: In a small Kerala village, he successfully initiated a milk cooperative society to directly help farmers earn better livelihoods, doing so without seeking recognition.
- Civic Action: While in Mumbai, he personally intervened to facilitate the commencement of a new essential bus route.
- Compassionate Assistance: He is remembered for quietly working with the Rotary Club to provide complete support, including finding a groom, for the marriage of a girl from a weaker section of society.
He believed that true service lay in understanding the everyday struggles of ordinary people. His actions—from organizing a major farmer’s seminar in Goa attended by the Chief Minister, to solving seemingly small civic problems—showed that his leadership was also about lifting society with compassion and humility.
The Gift of Communication and Consistent Character
Dr. Kurian is a gifted communicator whose cool, composed persona and abundance of patience are matched by his purity of intent. He has the rare ability to simplify complex issues and offer solutions that are fair, practical, and far-reaching. His consistency in actions and genuine respect for people—customers and staff alike—allows him to effortlessly make inroads into their hearts. He leads by example, never shying away from responsibility.
A Career of Many Roles, A Second Life of Leadership
Dr. Kurian’s leadership journey culminated in his service as a respected General Manager at Corporation Bank in 2016, following diverse and challenging roles:
- Zonal Head for Kerala, guiding 63 branches.
- Leading Retail Banking, Marketing, and Research & Development at the Corporate Office.
- Spearheading the crucial Electronic Banking business during a time of significant service challenges.
His adaptability across people, processes, and technology was remarkable. For him, leadership was not a title, but a duty.
Continuing the Mission Beyond Retirement
Retirement was merely a transition to a new stage of service. He immediately took on the role of Chief Executive Officer of Muthoottu Mini Financiers Limited, a prominent NBFC, expanding the company into new regions and driving revolutionary changes. He also served briefly as CEO of NCS Finance Private Limited before taking the entrepreneurial plunge as the Founding Director and Managing Director of Truecare Nidhi Limited. His expertise, marked by trust and integrity, remains sought after in the financial recovery sector, with roles at Sri Devi Resolutions Pvt Ltd and Credenz Finsol.
A Lasting Legacy
From a young Veterinary Science student representing the state of Madhya Pradesh at the Republic Day parade, to a respected PSB General Manager, and now a guiding force for new ventures, Dr. Kurian P. Abraham’s life is a masterclass in integrity, courage, and perseverance.
He attributes his sweet victories to overcoming trials and tribulations, guided by core beliefs:
- Teamwork makes the dream work.
- Nothing is impossible with sincerity and determination.
- Innovation lights the path to success.
- Criticism is a blessing—a guide for improvement.
Dr. Kurian P. Abraham remains a true architect of excellence—a banker who served with heart and a leader who continues to inspire. He now happily continues his mission as one of the promoters and MD of Truecare Nidhi Ltd, providing livelihood and service to hundreds.
