Meet Anand Kumaran, as the journey unfolds from Chennai to becoming a key strategic leader at Acara.

From Chennai to the World of Finance

Anand’s story begins in Chennai, where the educational foundation started at AVM Higher Secondary School, followed by a B.Com from Madras University, and an MBA from Madurai Kamarajar University. These formative years cultivated a deep appreciation for analytical thinking and the language of numbers.

Discovering a Calling

The path forward was clear from the start. “I’ve always been drawn to working with numbers, understanding how businesses operate behind the scenes, and contributing to strategic decision-making through financial insights,” Anand reflects.

Anand’s professional journey began at Taj Airport Catering, where he started as a cashier responsible for collecting funds from various cost centres during his shifts. He was later promoted to Senior Accountant. Following this role, Anand joined Alacrity Housing Limited as the Finance Manager. However, he desired more than a conventional finance position; he was looking for an environment where finance would not only support the business but also actively drive growth and innovation.

In 2007, through a referral from a former colleague, that vision found its home at Acara. “The company’s values, its forward-thinking approach, and the opportunity to work in a collaborative environment aligned perfectly with what I was looking,” Anand Kumaran explains”

A Mirror, Not Just a Job

What makes Acara different? Anand’s answer reveals something profound: “Life at Acara has felt less like just a job and more like a mirror, reflecting parts of myself I hadn’t fully seen or understood before.”

Previous roles required adaptation to fit into established rhythms and meet expectations. Acara presented something entirely different. “I was encouraged not just to deliver but to implement, not just to perform but to pause. There’s a quiet confidence here in doing meaningful work with passion.”

Leading Finance Forward

Today, as General Manager – Finance & Accounts, Anand’s responsibilities encompass strategic financial planning and analysis, financial strategy execution, financial management and reporting, investment management, and compliance and risk management.

The evolution has been remarkable. What began with a focus on day-to-day operations, accounting, budgeting, and compliance has transformed into strategic leadership that shapes the company’s direction.

The Fuel for Excellence

“Driving growth and efficiency, problem-solving and decision-making, and leading a team,” Anand Kumaran says when describing what brings excitement to the work.

Yet every rewarding role carries challenges. “One of the most challenging aspects is balancing precision with pressure. Finance demands absolute accuracy; a small mistake can have big consequences. At the same time, there are often tight deadlines and constantly shifting priorities.”

Beyond the Balance Sheet

“The most interesting part of my role is the ability to influence the strategic direction of the organisation through numbers,” Anand shares. “Finance is no longer just about keeping the books balanced; it helps other departments understand the financial impact of their decisions.”

Every day presents an opportunity to acquire new skills, gain fresh perspectives, or tackle challenges that push beyond familiar territory.

The Acara Difference

What makes Acara exceptional? “Acara truly values the growth of every employee in the organisation. There’s a commitment to personal and professional development, offering opportunities to learn new skills.”

Leadership at Acara stands out for being approachable and transparent, creating an environment of trust that inspires everyone to contribute their best work.

When asked to capture Acara’s essence in a single word, Anand chooses: Client Focused.

Life in Balance

Outside the office, Anand embraces a balanced lifestyle. Each morning begins with walking and gardening. Free time brings joy through watching sports and exploring new destinations with friends.

Deeper passions include investments and travel. Given unlimited resources, Anand dreams of traversing India, discovering everything the country offers.

Balancing responsibilities requires intention. “I start each day by identifying the key tasks that truly move my work forward, not just what is urgent. I delegate effectively, trusting my team to handle the details so I can focus on the bigger picture.”

Anand’s journey at Acara tells a story of alignment between personal values and organisational mission. It demonstrates how the right environment creates space for growth, discovery, and meaningful impact where professional excellence intertwines with personal fulfilment.

The All-In at Acara series tells the real stories of people who’ve found their place in Acara. Each story is different, but they all share one thing: the experience of being part of something bigger than themselves.

Connect with Anand on LinkedIn.