Airtel Payments Bank has appointed independent director Shabnam Sinha as its new chairperson, effective October 1, 2026. She succeeds founder Sunil Bharti Mittal, who steps down after a decade. The bank, which posted a net profit of ₹109 crore in FY26, continues to focus on its digital-first banking model despite navigating recent regulatory challenges.
Airtel Payments Bank has announced a major leadership transition at the helm of its board. Shabnam Sinha, currently serving as an independent director, will assume the role of chairperson starting October 1, 2026. She will succeed Sunil Bharti Mittal, the founder of Bharti Enterprises, who has chaired the institution since its inception in April 2016. Mittal will conclude his tenure on September 30, 2026.
The appointment comes as the bank continues to scale its digital financial services across India. For the financial year 2026 (FY26), the company reported revenue from operations of ₹3,207 crore and a net profit of ₹109 crore. With a reach spanning over 500,000 banking points and a user base of 121 million monthly active users, the institution has established itself as a significant player in the domestic digital payment and banking sector.
Sinha’s appointment is subject to approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). Her background in finance, development, and public policy is expected to be a focus for the board, particularly as the bank navigates the complexities of the digital banking landscape. Currently, Sinha leads the bank's Special Committee for Monitoring Frauds and is an active member of its Risk Management and Information Technology committees. This experience suggests a focus on strengthening internal oversight and digital security, which are essential for a firm managing millions of transactions.
While the bank has shown consistent operational growth, it is not without challenges. In March 2026, the RBI imposed a penalty of ₹31.80 lakh on the bank for failing to disclose certain customer complaints in its FY25 financial statements. For investors and stakeholders, this regulatory action serves as a reminder of the compliance requirements inherent in the digital banking sector. As Sinha takes over, the ability to balance rapid growth with strict regulatory adherence and robust IT security will be a key area for monitoring. The bank's next phase of leadership will likely be judged on its ability to maintain profit margins while scaling its account-based services and navigating the evolving regulatory environment for digital payments in India.