Ashok Kumar Panda Appointed SAIL Finance Director

New Delhi, May 2, 2025: Ashok Kumar Panda has taken charge as director of finance of Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL). Panda, who started as a management trainee in SAIL in 1992, has worked in various capacities across various plants and units.

Widely regarded for his financial and technical knowledge and proactive approach, his expertise spans financial accounting, costing and budgeting, business planning, treasury operations, taxation and strategic management.

Panda has played a pivotal role in strengthening SAIL’s financial position, spearheading key initiatives, including deleveraging efforts, cost optimisation, rail pricing strategy, fixed asset sales policy, tax optimisation, e-invoicing implementation and introducing digital invoicing across SAIL units to enhance transparency and efficiency, among others. Panda was also nominee director on the Boards of several joint ventures and subsidiary companies of SAIL.

Panda has also made major contribution to mining, plant operations, projects, etc., which has earned him laurels like the Jawahar Award 2012 for Excellence in Cost Management. He was also the runner-up in the Chairman’s Trophy for Young Managers, highlighting his leadership and problem-solving skills

Panda has travelled extensively for training programmes, business meets, etc. He has received numerous trainings from foreign and domestic institutions.    

As SAIL continues to drive efficiency and innovation in the steel sector, Panda’s strategic vision and leadership in financial management will play a crucial role in enhancing profitability and competitiveness.