Bengaluru: In a significant development in the public sector, the Public Enterprises Selection Board (PESB) has recommended Mr. Akhilesh Kumar, currently serving as Additional General Manager (Corporate Finance) at Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL), for the post of Director (Finance) at BEML Limited, a Schedule ‘A’ Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE).
The recommendation was made during PESB Selection Meeting No. 62/2026, held on July 24, 2026, which commenced at 8:45 AM. Kumar was selected after competing with nine other senior finance executives from leading public sector organisations.
The recommendation is subject to approval by the Government of India and completion of all prescribed appointment formalities.
PESB Recommends Akhilesh Kumar for Director (Finance) at BEML
Mr. Akhilesh Kumar is currently serving as Additional General Manager (Corporate Finance) at Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). With extensive experience in corporate finance and financial management, he emerged as the preferred candidate following the PESB’s selection process.
His recommendation marks a major career milestone and paves the way for him to assume one of the top leadership positions at BEML after receiving the necessary government approvals.
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10 Senior Finance Executives Interviewed by PESB
The Public Enterprises Selection Board interviewed a total of 10 senior finance professionals from leading public sector enterprises representing sectors such as power, oil & gas, mining, heavy engineering and government procurement.
The candidates interviewed were:
- Mr. Akhilesh Kumar – Additional General Manager (Corporate Finance), BHEL
- Mr. Akhil Kumar – Executive Director (Finance), BEML Limited
- Mr. Manoharan Potheri – Chief General Manager (Finance), Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL)
- Vijayashree Ranganthan – Chief Financial Officer, NTPC Limited
- Mr. Ashok Kumar Mali – Executive Director (E9), NLC India Limited
- Mr. Dev Kumar Pandey – Chief General Manager (Finance), North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO)
- Mr. Kamal Nath Thakur – Additional General Manager (Internal Audit), NTPC Limited
- Mr. Sanjay Bharti – Chief General Manager (Head Finance, BD & JV Strategy), Oil and Natural Gas Corporation Limited (ONGC)
- Mr. Satya Narayan Meena – Additional Chief Executive Officer, CFO & CMO, Government e-Marketplace (GeM)
- Mr. Nrusingha Behera – Chief General Manager (Finance), Odisha Mining Corporation Limited
Following detailed evaluation, PESB selected Akhilesh Kumar as its recommended candidate for the Board-level post.
Final Appointment Subject to Government Approval
While PESB has recommended Akhilesh Kumar for the position, the appointment is not yet final. The recommendation will now be forwarded to the Government of India for approval. The appointment will become effective only after completion of all statutory procedures, vigilance clearances and administrative formalities.
Akhilesh Kumar to Replace Anil Jerath
Upon receiving final approval, Akhilesh Kumar will succeed Mr. Anil Jerath, who is scheduled to superannuate on September 1.
His appointment will ensure continuity in the financial leadership of BEML as the company continues to expand its presence across defence, mining, rail and infrastructure sectors.
Role and Responsibilities of Director (Finance)
As Director (Finance) of BEML, Akhilesh Kumar will become a Member of the Board of Directors and will report directly to the Chairman and Managing Director (CMD).
His key responsibilities will include:
- Overall management of the company’s finance and accounts functions.
- Formulating and implementing financial policies.
- Financial planning, budgeting and resource allocation.
- Capital investment and treasury management.
- Ensuring statutory and regulatory compliance.
- Supporting strategic business planning and corporate governance.
The position is one of the most important Board-level roles in the company and plays a crucial role in shaping BEML’s long-term financial strategy.
What Happens Next?
Following the PESB recommendation, the proposal will move to the Government of India for final approval. Once all necessary clearances are obtained, Akhilesh Kumar is expected to formally assume charge as Director (Finance) of BEML Limited, where he will oversee the company’s financial operations and contribute to strategic decision-making at the highest level.
About BEML Limited
BEML Limited is a Schedule ‘A’ Central Public Sector Enterprise (CPSE) headquartered in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The company is one of India’s leading manufacturers of defence equipment, mining and construction machinery, rail and metro rolling stock, and aerospace components. BEML plays a vital role in supporting India’s defence preparedness, infrastructure development and industrial growth, while serving customers in both domestic and international markets.
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